The Indian government has issued a high-severity security warning for Apple users, urging them to update their devices to the latest compatible software versions. The advisory, issued by the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) on October 28, 2026, flags multiple vulnerabilities affecting iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, Apple Watches, Apple TVs and Apple Vision Pro headsets.
According to the advisory, these security flaws could allow attackers to execute malicious code, gain unauthorised access to sensitive information, bypass security restrictions and disrupt device operations. Users running outdated software have been advised to install the latest security updates to protect their devices against potential cyberattacks.
Apple software versions affected: Check the list
The government warning covers several Apple operating systems and the Safari browser. Apple released security updates for the affected platforms on October 26, 2026, two days before CERT-In issued its advisory.
Here is a list of the affected software versions:
- iOS: Versions earlier than 18.7.11, 26.7.2 or 27.2, depending on the software branch.
- iPadOS: Versions earlier than 18.7.11, 26.7.2 or 27.2.
- macOS Sequoia: Versions earlier than 15.8.2.
- macOS Tahoe: Versions earlier than 26.7.2.
- macOS Golden Gate: Versions earlier than 27.2.
- Safari: Versions earlier than 27.2.
- watchOS: Versions earlier than 27.2.
- tvOS: Versions earlier than 27.2.
- visionOS: Versions earlier than 27.2.
The exact update available depends on the device model and the operating system it supports. Users should check their installed software version rather than assume every Apple device can run the same update.
What are the security risks for Apple users?
CERT-In has classified the vulnerabilities as high severity. The reported flaws include memory corruption, buffer overflows, out-of-bounds read and write errors, race conditions and other weaknesses affecting software components.
If exploited, these vulnerabilities could allow attackers to run unauthorised code, obtain elevated privileges, access sensitive information, bypass security protections or cause affected devices and systems to crash.
Some vulnerabilities could be triggered when users process specially crafted web content, files, images, audio, video or fonts. This makes keeping browsers and operating systems updated an important step in protecting personal data and device security.
How to update your iPhone and Mac
Apple users can check for available updates directly through their device settings.
- iPhone and iPad: Go to Settings, select General and tap Software Update.
- MacBook and Mac: Open System Settings, select General and click Software Update.
- Apple Watch: Open the Watch app on your paired iPhone, select General and tap Software Update.
- Apple TV: Open Settings, go to System and select Software Updates.
- Apple Vision Pro: Open Settings and check for available software updates.
Users should install the latest compatible security update available for their device. Those using older Apple products that cannot run the newest operating system should check whether a security patch has been released for their supported software branch.
The advisory serves as a reminder that even Apple devices require regular security updates. Installing the latest compatible software can help protect users from known vulnerabilities and reduce the risk of potential cyberattacks.
