Apple just pushed out a major security update for the iPhone, download it now

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Often software updates are just fixing issues in usability, but today’s iOS update reminds us that they also serve a vital role in keeping us safe from hackers.

Apple recommends that everyone using an iOS or iPadOS device updates to version 14.4 immediately, as it patches three vulnerabilities that are said to be actively used by hackers.

We know that two of the glitches were found in WebKit, the browser engine that powers Safari, and that one was found in the kernel, the main part of the operating system.

Details of what those vulnerabilities are being kept close to their chest, as is who may have been targeted, but Apple’s wording is that they “may have been actively exploited.” That’s enough of a warning for anyone, really, so go update your iPhone, iPod, and iPad devices right now, so they’re on version 14.4.

How to update your iPhone to iOS 14.4

If you want to update (and you totally should), here’s how you can do that in just a couple of quick steps.

Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad

Tap on General

Tap on Software Update

Tap on Download and Install

You might get asked if you want to temporarily remove apps because the update needs more space. Tap on Continue. iOS will reinstall those apps after the update is finished

Tap on Install once the update has downloaded

Now you’ve got your iPhone or iPad updated to the latest software version, patching out those nasty vulnerabilities that could have let attackers get into your device.

Have any thoughts on this? Downloading this update from Apple? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Joe Rice-Jones

Maker, meme-r, and unabashed geek with nearly half a decade of blogging experience at KnowTechie, SlashGear and XDA Developers. If it runs on electricity (or even if it doesn't), Joe probably has one around his office somewhere, with particular focus in gadgetry and handheld gaming. Shoot him an email at joe@knowtechie.com.