Not updating to iOS 18.3.2 poses several potential risks to iPhone users, primarily related to security vulnerabilities that have been actively exploited in the wild. Here are some of the key risks:
1. WebKit Vulnerability: The most significant risk is associated with a WebKit vulnerability, identified as CVE-2025-24201. This flaw allows maliciously crafted web content to break out of the Web Content sandbox, potentially giving attackers unauthorized access to device data. This vulnerability has been exploited in targeted attacks, particularly against individuals using iOS versions older than 17.2[1][2][10].
2. Remote Exploitation: Unlike the vulnerability patched in iOS 18.3.1, which required physical access to the device, the WebKit flaw can be exploited remotely over the internet. This means attackers can target devices from anywhere, increasing the risk for all users, not just those in close proximity[1][11].
3. Sophisticated Attacks: The vulnerability has been used in extremely sophisticated attacks, suggesting that state-sponsored actors or advanced threat groups may be involved. While these attacks are typically targeted at high-profile individuals, the risk remains that the exploit could be used more broadly if it falls into the wrong hands[1][10].
4. Data Security: If an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they could potentially access sensitive data stored on the device. This includes personal information, emails, photos, and other confidential data[1][11].
5. Future Exploitation: Even though the current exploitation is targeted, there is a risk that other malicious actors could obtain and use the exploit more widely in the future. This makes it crucial for all users to update their devices to prevent potential future attacks[1][7].
6. Compatibility and Support: iOS 18.3.2 is compatible with iPhone XS and newer models, as well as various iPad models. Users with older devices may not be able to update, leaving them vulnerable to these and other security issues[1][2].
In summary, not updating to iOS 18.3.2 leaves iPhone users exposed to a critical security vulnerability that can be exploited remotely, potentially leading to unauthorized data access and other security breaches. It is essential for users to update their devices promptly to mitigate these risks.
Citations:
[1] https://www.forbes.com/sites/kateoflahertyuk/2025/03/12/ios-1832-update-now-warning-issued-to-all-iphone-users/
[2] https://thecyberexpress.com/latest-apple-security-update/
[3] https://fieldeffect.com/blog/apple-patches-first-ios-zero-day-vulnerability-of-2025
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/TwoXPreppers/comments/1ifcfsd/urgent_do_not_update_iphone_to_ios_183/
[5] https://economictimes.com/magazines/panache/iphone-security-alert-apple-releases-emergency-ios-update-to-fix-data-leak-vulnerability/articleshow/118145776.cms
[6] https://support.apple.com/en-us/121161
[7] https://appleinsider.com/articles/25/03/11/dont-wait-to-update-ios-1832-fixes-an-actively-exploited-issue
[8] https://cyberscoop.com/apple-security-update-zero-day-january-2025/
[9] https://www.simplymac.com/ios/how-to-fix-ios-18-3-problems
[10] https://www.securityweek.com/apple-ships-ios-18-3-2-to-fix-already-exploited-webkit-flaw/
[11] https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/download-ios-18-3-2-right-now-to-patch-this-security-issue/