Apple followed up the iOS 10.2 update with a related number of security fixes for MacOS, bringing the current laptop and desktop version of its operating system up to 10.12.2.
The update includes numerous critical bug fixes for holes in system components from Apache, the web server that’s included on every Macbook, to syslog, a core utility that collects messages, errors and warnings from the rest of the system.
Ironically, the bug in syslog could have allowed intruders to acquire superuser access, which can then allow them to clean the critical system logs that might otherwise have provided evidence of their attack.
Safari Browser Drive-By Fix
Apple’s browser ‘Safari’ has also received an update to 10.0.2, fixing several vulnerabilities that could be exploited by booby-trapped web pages to install malware without warning.
Interestingly, Apple accompanied its MacOS update notification with a bulletin offering Additional information for [the recent advisory about] iOS 10.2.
It was decided that iOS 10.2 was a critical update simply on account of the number of lock screen bugs that it fixed; it now turns out that many other critical bugs were fixed, too, but not disclosed in the original iOS 10.2 bulletin.
What should you do?
First – Update your devices:
How to Update MacOS
Head to Settings | General | Software Update on your iDevice.
Use Apple | About This Mac | Software Update on your Mac.
- The latest version of iOS is 10.2. Learn how to update the iOS software on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.
- The latest version of macOS is 10.12.2. Learn how to update the software on your Mac.