Technology companies are working to protect their customers after researchers revealed that major security flaws affecting nearly every modern computer processor could allow hackers to steal stored data — including passwords and other sensitive information — on desktops, laptops, mobile phones and cloud networks around the globe.
The scramble to harden a broad array of devices comes after researchers found two significant vulnerabilities within modern computing hardware, one of which cannot be fully resolved as of yet. Experts say the disclosure of the critical flaws underscores the need to keep up with software updates and security patches and highlights the role independent research plays in prodding tech companies to minimize security weaknesses.
Apple just confirmed that nearly all of its devices are impacted by the serious vulnerabilities affecting processors made by Intel and other chip makers.
In the company's first public statement on the vulnerabilities, Apple confirmed that all of its Mac and iOS devices are affected by the bugs known as Meltdown and Spectre.
"These issues apply to all modern processors and affect nearly all computing devices and operating systems. All Mac systems and iOS devices are affected, but there are no known exploits impacting customers at this time," the company said.
Apple also explained that most exploits rely on apps with malicious code, reiterating that users should only download software from "trusted sources," such as its own App Stores. The company says it has addressed the bugs with its own software updates for MacOS (10.13.2), iOS (11.2), and tvOS (11.2).
For Safari, Apple says users can expect a software update meant "to help defend against Spectre," in the next few days. Google and Microsoft also previously issued patches meant to address the vulnerabilities, which first came to light earlier this week.