Apple Releases Critical Security Updates

Apple has released security updates for OS X, Safari, iOS and Apple TV to address multiple vulnerabilities, one of which could allow a remote attacker to take control of an affected system.

Apple’s iOS 8.1.3 fixes a number of issues involving ID names, Spotlight search and multitasking on the iPad. But you’d be forgiven for only noticing the one that said “reduced the amount of storage required to provide a software update.” This time, you don’t need to nuke apps to make space.

The second update to Yosemite, 10.10.2’s release included changes to resolve an issue that may cause Wi-Fi to disconnect. Mac users have been particularly vocal about this issue.

Apple also claims the update will improve Web page loading times, fix privacy issues in Spotlight and Apple’s email client, improve the performance of the VoiceOver screen reader, and added the ability to browse iCloud Drive.

But the promised Wi-Fi fix will undoubtedly get the most attention: A massive thread on Apple’s support forum, which kicked off just a day after Yosemite’s October 2014 debut, has been the home of complaints about the OS refusing to connect to a wireless network, or if it does, suddenly dropping the connection.

Updates available include:

• OS X v10.10.2 and MAC Security Update 2015-001 for OS X Mountain Lion v10.8.5, OS X Mavericks v10.9.5, and OS X Yosemite v10.10 and v10.10.1
• Safari 8.0.3, Safari 7.1.3, and Safari 6.2.3 for OS X Mountain Lion v10.8.5, OS X Mavericks v10.9.5, and OS X Yosemite v10.10.1
• iOS 8.1.3 for iPhone 4s and later, iPod touch 5th generation and later, and iPad 2 and later
• Apple TV 7.0.3 for Apple TV 3rd generation and later