Apple has issued a critical security update for Mac users following the discovery of two “zero-day” vulnerabilities that were actively exploited in cyberattacks targeting Intel-based Mac systems.

The company has urged all users to update their devices immediately to safeguard against these vulnerabilities, which were previously unknown to Apple at the time of exploitation.

According to a security advisory released on Apple’s website, the flaws are related to WebKit and JavaScriptCore—key engines responsible for powering the Safari browser and processing web content across Apple devices.

WebKit has been a long-standing target for hackers, as its weaknesses can provide unauthorized access to sensitive user data.

Apple’s security team warned that these vulnerabilities could allow cybercriminals to execute harmful code on affected Mac devices through specially crafted websites or emails. This could lead to malware installation and potential data breaches.

Although Apple has confirmed the flaws were used in active attacks, it has not yet revealed the full scope of the damage. The identity of the attackers remains undisclosed, though some experts believe the attack could be linked to a state-sponsored cyber operation.

The vulnerabilities were first reported by Google’s Threat Analysis Group, which investigates government-backed cyberattacks, suggesting that a nation-state actor may be involved.

The software update, which also includes fixes for iPhones and iPads running older versions of iOS 17, is strongly recommended for all users. While the full number of affected devices remains unclear, the vulnerabilities primarily impact older Intel-based Mac processors, still used by many Apple customers.

By releasing updates across macOS, iOS, and iPadOS, Apple is addressing the increasing threats to privacy and security in today’s interconnected digital world. The company has urged users to install the updates without delay to mitigate any potential risks.

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