Following the release of iOS 17.2 earlier this month, Apple released a rare incremental update for the iPhone.

As Forbes reported, Apple did not include any information about the vulnerability, so it is not clear whether iOS 17.2.1 fixes the specific security flaw affecting the best iPhones. However, Apple stated in the update itself that it "provides important bug fixes" and is "recommended for all users."

At the bottom of the update is a link to Apple's support page, which, when clicked, indicates that iOS 17.2.1 is either an Apple security update or one of the company's Rapid Security Responses.

There is speculation online that the update fixes a battery life issue with certain iPhone models, but for those who are gifting an iPhone to a loved one, the update may be just in time for the holiday season.

At the same time, however, the iPhone has been the target of many spyware attacks recently, and this update may fix a critical vulnerability in the background that Apple is not yet ready to disclose. The company has been secretive about vulnerabilities in the past. However, an Apple spokesperson said that there is nothing more than what is mentioned in the release notes and did not mention any security fixes. [iOS 17.2.1 is available for iPhone XS and later. To check if the update is ready, go to Settings, tap General, and then head to Software Update.

One reason I think this surprise update may be more serious than Apple is currently announcing is due to the fact that the best MacBooks also received incremental updates.

Like iOS 17.2, macOS Sonoma 14.2 was released earlier this month. However, in a separate support document from Apple, the company reveals that macOS 14.2.1 fixes a critical vulnerability tracked as CVE-2023-42940.

The flaw itself is a session rendering issue and was discovered by Craig Hockenberry of Iconfactory. The vulnerability is unlikely to be exploited by hackers, but could result in incorrect content being shared when Mac users share their screens.

If you own a Mac and an iPhone, it would be best to update both devices simultaneously as soon as possible to avoid dealing with possible problems.

The first and most important thing you can do to keep your iPhone, iPad, Mac, and other Apple devices secure is to install the latest updates as soon as they become available. Hackers often target devices running outdated software.

In addition to this, you should also consider installing the best Mac antivirus software on your Apple computer, as it can protect you from Mac malware and other cyber threats. for antivirus software for iOS, There is no equivalent to antivirus software for Android, but Intego's Mac antivirus software can scan both the iPhone and iPad for malware when they are connected to the Mac via a USB cable.

Apple devices are known to be more secure than Android and Windows devices, but as their popularity grows each year, they are increasingly targeted by hackers. iOS 17.2.1 and macOS 14.2.1, from Apple down the road. More information may be forthcoming, but since there was not much information in the advisory to begin with, it is likely that this will not be the case.