Apple will issue an emergency patch for iPhones running iOS 18 to protect against DarkSword spyware. This decision comes as a response to the spyware’s potential to allow hackers to steal data from devices.
The move is significant because Apple usually instructs users to upgrade to the latest iOS version for security improvements. Until now, iOS 18 lacked a protective patch against DarkSword, despite the issuance of a fix for iOS 26.
At the end of February, approximately 19% of iPhone users were still using iOS 18, according to a survey by TelemetryDeck. This reflects a substantial number of users who may be hesitant to switch to the latest operating system due to various reasons, including a preference for the previous user interface.
An Apple spokesperson confirmed that the patch will be released on Wednesday morning. Users on iOS 18 will receive the update without being upgraded to iOS 26 while still gaining protection against the spyware.
Apple continues to recommend that all users upgrade to iOS 26 to benefit from the most comprehensive security features.
DarkSword is publicly available and poses a real threat to user data. Apple’s strategy marks a rare instance of providing a dedicated patch for an older version of iOS.
