Apple rolls out emergency update to older iPhones, iPads to protect them from hacking toolkit DarkSword

Recently, Apple released iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 with new features, along with the emergency software update and critical security patches to iPhones and iPads.

But, it was limited to selected models such as iPhone 11, iPad (8th gen) and newer models. Now, the company has released special iOS 18.7.7 and iPadOS 18.7.7 updates to older devices to fix a severe security vulnerability that allowed hackers to use the DarkSword toolkit to infect the devices and steal personal information.

Simply by visiting a compromised website, older iPhones and iPads can get infected with the malware.

Reportedly, the vulnerability has been exploited by hackers and has targeted people in global regions, including China, Malaysia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Ukraine. This latest update can strengthen the device's security against such cyber threats.

List of iPhones and iPads eligible for iOS 18.7.7 and iPadOS 18.7.7:

Apple iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone 11 (all models), iPhone SE (2nd generation), iPhone 12 (all models), iPhone 13 (all models), iPhone SE (3rd generation), iPhone 14 (all models), iPhone 15 (all models), iPhone 16 (all models), iPhone 16e, iPad mini (5th generation - A17 Pro), iPad (7th generation - A16), iPad Air (3rd - 5th generation), iPad Air 11-inch (M2 - M3), iPad Air 13-inch (M2 - M3), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation - M4), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd - 6th generation), and iPad Pro 13-inch (M4).

Here's how to install iOS 18.7.7/iPadOS 26.7.7 on iPhones and iPads:

As noted earlier, the update is very big, and users are advised to rely on Wi-Fi to download it. And, ensure the device has a little over 50 per cent battery life before starting the installation process.

Via OTA (Over-The-Air)

Prerequisite: Users who want to install the update directly onto the device through OTA, make sure there is enough storage space and the device has more than 50 per cent battery life, before initiating the download of the new iOS/iPadOS update.

Step 1: Settings >> General >> Software update

Via manual installation through Apple iTunes

Prerequisite: Back up your iPhone/iPad to iCloud or iTunes before initiating the download procedure. Also, your PC must have the latest version of the iTunes app. If not, go to About, then check for Updates, or visit iTunes.com.

Step 1: Launch iTunes on your Mac or PC.

Step 2: Insert your iPhone/iPad if it isn't already.

Step 3: Tap on the iPhone/ iPad in the top left navigation.

Step 4: Tap on the Check for Update button in the first section that contains information about your device, and alternatively, you can click Restore instead if you'd like to do a clean wipe with updated software.

Step 5: An update should be recognised, click on Download and Update in the pop-up menu and agree to the terms and conditions.

Step 6: Unlock your device with your passcode if prompted to continue with the upgrade.

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