Tag: Privacy

Apple releases iOS 16.2 and other platforms

by Danis Tazetdinov

Following recent RC Apple now releases iOS/iPadOS 16.2, macOS 13.1 Ventura, watchOS 9.2 and tvOS 16.2. Xcode 14.2 is also released.

HomePodOS received corresponding update (which is required for Home updates and Matter support).

Apple also releases security bug fixes for previous OS releases - iOS 15 and macOS 11 Big Sur and macOS 12 Monterey.

This update brings several important updates:

Apple Newsroom: Apple launches Freeform: a powerful new app designed for creative collaboration

References:

Apple abandons plans to implement CSAM detection features in Photos

by Danis Tazetdinov

In an interview to Joanna Stern, Craig Federighi confirms that Apple stopped development of previously announced CSAM detection features.

In this interview Craig Federighi discussed new privacy and security features added by Apple to iCloud and their effect on law enforcement ability to extract data from iCloud.

One of the nixed features is Photos CSAM detection which was criticized by many privacy-focused groups and organizations.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4ZOkWaDxfw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4ZOkWaDxfw

The Wall Street Journal: Apple Plans New Encryption System to Ward Off Hackers and Protect iCloud Data (Apple News+)

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In-app browsers in third-party apps could create significant security risks

by Danis Tazetdinov

Felix Krause published a tool to review how in-app browsers are hijacking user's actions in the web. Tools follows report made by the same developer.

TikTok's browser even captures every key stroke (including passwords) and reports those back to app owner.

Tool provides report on injected JavaScript code that could intercept user's data.

Tool: InAppBrowser

References:

Apple announces Lockdown mode for vulnerable users

by Danis Tazetdinov

Apple made an announcement on ability to increase device safety by sacrificing some of the capabilities:

  • Most of attachments in Messages are blocked;
  • Certain Web technologies are disabled (JavaScript JIT compilation, for example);
  • Some of Apple services (such as FaceTime) are blocked unless user explicitly communicated with the initiator previously;
  • Wired connection to computer is disabled when device is locked;
  • MDM and configuration profiles could not be installed.

Lockdown mode will be in active development, new restrictions and safeguards might be added soon.

Lockdown mode will be available for iOS 16, iPadOS 16 and macOS 13 Ventura.

It is expected that this mode will be used by small number of people who are potentially in risk of targeted cyberattacks, however, feature itself will be available to all users within settings later this year. As of now beta 3 is shipped with Lockdown mode settings available.

Apple Newsroom: Apple expands industry-leading commitment to protect users from highly targeted mercenary spyware

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iOS 16 and other OSes get beta 3

by Danis Tazetdinov

Apple publishes next round of beta versions for upcoming big releases. iOS/iPadOS 16, macOS 13 Ventura, watchOS 9 and tvOS 16 now released as beta 3. Corresponding Xcode beta is also published.

Notable changes:

  • iCloud Shared Photo Library is now available;
  • AFib history is now available;
  • Lockdown mode can be enabled;
  • Several Lock Screen enhancements to provide better experience with widgets;
  • Safari will support virtual card numbers for online purchases on participating banks;
  • Also, there is a "clownfish" wallpaper which was used on original iPhone announcement, but never actually shipped with iOS or iPhoneOS.

Beta download: Operating Systems

Release notes:

References:

Apple publishes iCloud Private Relay whitepaper

by Danis Tazetdinov

Apple published a document explaining iCloud Private Relay mechanisms.

At the same time multiple European carriers are trying to ban or at least block iCloud Private Relay.

There are reports that T-Mobile is also trying to block it even in US. However, that is a bit more complicated.

Apple: iCloud Private Relay Overview

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Apple publishes Release Candidate for its platforms

by Danis Tazetdinov

Release Candidate is published for upcoming OS releases.

These updates include Apple Music Voice Plan support, service history is now tracked on the phone.

Also, iOS now includes App Privacy Report.

iOS & iPadOS 15 introduced the Record App Activity feature in the privacy settings, allowing people to save a summary of sensor, data, and internet access by apps on their device. In iOS & iPadOS 15.2, this activity is presented in Settings in a new UI called App Privacy Report. This is a great opportunity to review your app’s sensor, data, and internet usage. To view your activity in the report, go to Settings > Privacy > App Privacy Report > Turn On App Privacy Report. Activity will show once you use your app. (78696668)

iOS & iPadOS 15.2 Release Notes

Siri gets Dutch language support on HomePod in this RC hinting upcoming availability of HomePod in Netherlands.

Legacy Contacts are also enabled in RC.

macOS 12.1 Monterey now supports SharePlay, but Universal Control is still missing. Also RC includes a lot of fixes, including problems with charging, "notch" and others.

watchOS 8.3 RC now enables ECG in China and adds Assistive Touch support to older models.

Corresponding Xcode 13.2 RC is also released.

Beta download: Beta Software Downloads

Release notes: iOS & iPadOS 15.2 Release Notes, macOS Monterey 12.1 Release Notes, watchOS 8.3 Release Notes, tvOS 15.2 Release Notes, Xcode 13.2 RC Release Notes

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