Just yesterday security vulnerabilities were discovered in WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access II). WPA2 is used in many modern Wi-Fi networks, and eventually affects devices including Android, Linux, Apple, Windows, OpenBSD, among others. Discovered by Mathy Vanhoef, the vulnerability could allow people access to your Wi-Fi traffic. Apple has now stated that the WPA2 vulnerability has already been patched on its OS platforms.

According to imore, Apple has confirmed that the exploit has been patched in the latest beta versions of iOS, tvOS, watchOS, and macOS. These betas are currently available to developers and public, and will soon be rolled out to consumers globally. The patch will come with third beta of iOS 11.1, tvOS 11.1 beta, and third public beta of watchOS 4.1. After the stable versions are rolled out, it will essentially keep Apple devices safe when connected to a Wi-Fi router for internet connectivity.

Apple has confirmed to me that #wpa2 #KRACK exploit has already been patched in iOS, tvOS, watchOS, macOS betas.

Deeper dive to follow.

— Rene Ritchie (@reneritchie) October 16, 2017

The security vulnerability uses a key re-installation attack (KRACK) in WPA2 protocol. Using KRACK, attackers can hack into the Wi-Fi’s traffic allowing them to access sensitive information like credit and debit card details, usernames, passwords, and more. In essence, any kind of vulnerable information passed through is at risk of being exposed. 

Considering how WPA2 is used to encrypt Wi-Fi connections, this vulnerability could lead to potential risks of data leaking. In an interview with The Guardian, Vanhoef said, “If your device supports Wi-Fi, it is most likely affected,” Vanhoef writes. “In general, any data or information that the victim transmits can be decrypted … Additionally, depending on the device being used and the network setup, it is also possible to decrypt data sent towards the victim (e.g. the content of a website).”

Content sent to websites that aren’t secured can be exploited by this vulnerability. Even websites with http can be exploited. It is advised that users do not connect to public Wi-Fi networks. You can opt for ethernet connections, and user VPN for browsing. 

Last night, Apple made some big announcements. To begin with, three new iPhones were unveiled – iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and the anniversary edition iPhone X. Also launched at the event was the latest Apple Watch Series 3, which is the first in the series to come with an LTE support. However, beside these products, Apple also announced the software that will be powering these devices. Which means, Apple also revealed release dates for the iOS, watchOS, macOS and tvOS updates. 

iOS 11 is definitely the most anticipated update. In fact, considering the hole iPhone X could burn in your pocket, iOS 11 is what many were looking forward to from the event. With the new iOS 11, Apple sort of made a U-turn on some of its long-held rules for its touch-based platform. And that includes a dock that more closely resembles the macOS version, the ability to drag and drop between apps, and a file manager of sorts. iOS 11 will start rolling out to all supported devices starting September 19. 

Beside iOS, the new watchOS update was announced too. Now, of course the update won’t add cellular connectivity to your Watch Series 2, but it comes with a bunch of new features for older Apple Watch generations, including a Siri watch face. There are also new Workout and News apps to be found. Along with iOS 11, watchOS 4 also rolls out on September 19. 

Not among the most prominent announcements from yesterday’s event, but macOS High Sierra is surely highly-anticipated. The new macOS brings a touch of refinement to the desktop platform. While perhaps not as grandiose as the Sierra launch, High Sierra still has significant changes, especially under the hood, with the introduction of Apple’s new APFS file system for starters. macOS High Sierra rolls out on September 25. 

Apple also unveiled the new tvOS with a redesigned UI, which comes with a dedicated sports tab. For instance in the sports section, users can see real-time scores next to the preview of a game’s videos. Apple said that the tvOS 11 will be available starting September 19, alongside watchOS 4 and iOS 11. The update will arrive via OTA.

{BGR}