Your Apple devices are exposed to hackers until you install these updates

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Apple’s AirPlay is the latest tech darling to join the “Oh God, Why?” club of security vulnerabilities. And this one’s a doozy, folks.

As we reported earlier this week, security researchers at Oligo Security just dropped a bombshell about a zero-click remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability they’re calling “AirBorne.”

This vulnerability is basically a VIP pass for hackers to crash your AirPlay party without even knocking. We’re talking about a zero-click attack, which is fancy security speak for “you don’t have to do anything stupid to get hacked – it just happens.” Cool, right?

This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects pretty much every device with AirPlay capabilities.

That shiny new MacBook? Yep. Your trusty old iPhone? You bet. That Apple TV you only use for Ted Lasso rewatches? Oh, absolutely.

Why You Should Actually Care

Unlike your ex’s dramatic Instagram stories, this is something you actually need to pay attention to. The vulnerability could let attackers:

• Execute code remotely on your device
• Access your personal data
• Probably judge your Spotify playlists (okay, maybe not that last one)

Update your devices – here’s how to do it

Here’s the good news – Apple’s already patched this in their latest updates. The bad news? You actually need to install them.

I know, I know, updating is annoying, but so is getting hacked.

To protect yourself:

• Update your iOS devices to the latest version – here’s how: How to update your iPhone
• Update macOS – here’s how: How to update your Mac
• Update iPad OS – here’s how: How to update your iPad
• Update Apple TV – here’s how: How to update Apple TV
• Check for updates on any other Apple devices you own

The Bottom Line

Look, security vulnerabilities are like seasons of your favorite show – they keep coming whether you want them to or not. Thankfully, this one has a simple fix.

So do yourself a favor and update your devices. Unless you enjoy living dangerously, in which case, maybe stick to skydiving instead of testing fate with unpatched tech.

For the folks in the back who want the technical deep-dive, you can check out Oligo Security’s detailed analysis about how they discovered this vulnerability.

Remember: In the immortal words of every IT person ever, “Have you tried updating it?”

What are your thoughts on the “AirBorne” vulnerability affecting Apple’s AirPlay? Are you quick to update your devices, or do you usually hold off? Share your experiences and concerns with us! Leave a comment below.

Kevin Raposo

Kevin is KnowTechie's founder and executive editor. With over 15 years of blogging experience in the tech industry, Kevin has transformed what was once a passion project into a full-blown tech news publication. Shoot him an email at kevin@knowtechie.com.