Apple issues warning for iPhone users to update their devices as new tool emerges that means millions of phones could be hacked
Published on Mar 23, 2026 at 4:43 AM (UTC+4)
by Claire Reid
Last updated on Mar 23, 2026 at 4:43 AM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Claire Reid
Apple has urged iPhone users to update to the latest iOS following the discovery of a new hacking tool that could be used to steal data.
Earlier this month, the Google Threat Intelligence Group (GTIG) announced that it had discovered Coruna, a kit of powerful hacking tools that had made its way into the hands of criminals.
Now, just a couple of weeks later, Google announced it had discovered a new hacking tool dubbed DarkSword, which could silently infect your iPhone and steal your data.
And if you’re still using an older version of iOS, then it’s probably time to update it.
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The newly discovered hacking tool could pose a risk to millions
Cybersecurity companies Lookout and iVerify have both also issued warnings about DarkSword.
What makes this particular tool so concerning is that, unlike a lot of other malware used by hackers, DarkSword doesn’t need to be installed on your phone to infect it.
All you need to do is go to a website that has been infected, and it will quietly get into your device and steal your personal data or financial information, including your passwords, iCloud content, photos, and more.
It also works fast.
“As opposed to many other previously reported cases of sophisticated attacks on mobile devices, DarkSword is not designed for ongoing surveillance,” Lookout warned in a recent report.
“Once it finishes collecting and exfiltrating the targeted data, it deletes the files it created on the filesystem of the device and exits. Its dwell time on the device is likely in the range of minutes, depending on the amount of data it discovers and exfiltrates.”
According to Google, DarkSword can be used on iPhones running iOS versions 18.4 to 18.7, which amounts to millions of people.
Apple has issued a warning to iPhone owners
In response to the new threat, Apple has shared a statement.
“If your iPhone doesn’t have the latest software, update iOS to protect your data,” Apple said.
“Security researchers recently identified web-based attacks that target out-of-date versions of iOS through malicious web content.
“For example, if you’re using an older version of iOS and were to click a malicious link or visit a compromised website, the data on your iPhone might be at risk of being stolen.”
The tech giant went on to say that if you have the latest updated version of iOS 15 through to iOS 26, then you are ‘already protected’.
“We released a software update for iOS 15 and iOS 16 on March 11, 2026, to extend protection to older devices that cannot update to the latest version of iOS,” the statement continued.
Those on older devices that can’t update beyond iOS 13 or iOS 14 will receive a ‘Criticial Security Update’ in the next few days.
Apple also said that users can enable Lockdown Mode to help keep them safe against malicious threats.
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With a background in both local and national press in the UK, Claire has covered a range of topics, including technology, gaming, and cryptocurrency, since joining the editorial team at Supercar Blondie in May 2024. Her ability to be first to a story has been integral to making SB’s coverage of scientific discovery, AI, and global tech news a slick 24/7 operation.
