Apple has rolled out the iOS 18.3.1 update for eligible iPhones, addressing a critical security flaw. According to an update on Apple’s support page, this fix resolves an issue that allowed attackers with physical access to a locked iPhone to disable USB Restricted Mode. Apple noted that the vulnerability may have been used in a “highly sophisticated attack” targeting specific individuals.
iOS 18.3.1 is now available! pic.twitter.com/y6xtpmjsU0
— Apple Hub (@theapplehub) February 10, 2025
For those unfamiliar, USB Restricted Mode is a security feature that blocks USB accessories from connecting to an iPhone if it has been locked for over an hour, safeguarding user data from unauthorized access via connected devices. However, Apple revealed that a flaw in iOS may have been exploited to bypass this protection.
The iOS 18.3.1 and iPadOS 18.3.1 updates resolve this issue by enhancing the device’s accessibility feature with “improved state management.” Simply put, users are strongly encouraged to update their devices to the latest version to stay protected.
ALSO SEE: Samsung Galaxy F06 5G To Launch in India Tomorrow, Price Range Confirmed
How to Enable or Disable USB Restricted Mode
- Open Settings and navigate to Face ID & Passcode.
- Enter your device’s passcode when prompted.
- Scroll down to the Allow Access When Locked section and find the Accessories toggle.
- If the toggle is off, USB accessories will require you to unlock your iPhone to connect if it’s been more than an hour since the device was last unlocked.
- To turn off USB Restricted Mode, simply enable the toggle.
Everything is definitely a little snapper, seems like things have definitely been improved with the speed and fluidity in 18.3.1 even versus 18.3.
I really didn’t expect that, but I’m definitely not complaining. #iOS #iOS1831 #Apple #iPhone16Pro pic.twitter.com/AYEqHhrx24
— Mark (@imarksx) February 10, 2025
iOS 18.3.1: How to Check, Download, and Install
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap General and navigate to the Software Update section.
- If the update is available, you’ll see the option to Download and Install. Tap on it to start the process.
- Once the download is complete, you can choose to Install Now, Install Later, or Remind Me Later.
- Tap Install Now to update immediately or pick an option that suits your schedule.
- Enter your passcode if prompted to proceed with the installation.
Do note, iOS 18.3.1 is compatible with all devices eligible for iOS 18, including the iPhone XS and newer models.
ALSO SEE: ‘Invisible Threat’: Tech Millionaire Bryan Johnson Calls Out India’s Air Pollution Crisis