Updated on Jan. 11, Apple is sounding the alarm. Millions of iPhone users remain vulnerable to dangerous spyware attacks because they haven’t installed critical security updates. The problem is getting worse by the day.
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The Security Crisis Unfolding
Before the holidays, Apple rushed to fix two serious security flaws in its iPhone software. Hackers had found ways to break into iPhones using sophisticated spyware. Apple released patches to close these zero-day vulnerabilities. But there’s a major problem: most iPhone users still haven’t applied these fixes.
The numbers tell a troubling story. Data shows that roughly half of all iPhone users eligible for the iOS 26 update have chosen not to install it. Some reports suggest the adoption rate could be even lower, with fewer than one in five users making the switch.
This marks a dramatic shift in user behavior. Normally, iPhone owners rush to download new software updates. Last year at this time, over 60 percent of users had already installed iOS 18. The year before, iOS 17 saw similar quick adoption rates.
Why This Matters Now
Security experts are deeply concerned. Darren Guccione from Keeper Security warns that there’s no way around this risk. “There’s no workaround or user behavior that meaningfully mitigates this risk,” he explains. Updating your iPhone is the only real defense.
The danger grows each day that passes. When Apple releases security patches, hackers study them closely. They learn exactly what vulnerabilities were fixed. This knowledge helps them target people who haven’t updated yet. The longer users wait, the bigger the target they become.
These aren’t ordinary security threats. We’re talking about mercenary spyware—sophisticated tools used by professional hackers and state actors. These attacks can steal personal data, read messages, track locations, and even turn on cameras and microphones without users knowing.
The iOS 26 Adoption Problem
So why aren’t people updating? Several factors seem to be at play.
Apple initially suggested it would release security patches for iOS 18 users who wanted to wait before upgrading. Many users counted on this option. But Apple changed course. Now, if your iPhone can run iOS 26, you won’t get security fixes through iOS 18 updates. You must upgrade to stay protected. Forbes confirms Apple warns users to upgrade immediately.
Some experts point to iOS 26’s design changes as another reason for hesitation. Features like “Liquid Glass” have received mixed reactions from users. When people don’t like how new software looks or feels, they often delay updating.
The situation represents an unusual challenge for Apple. iPhone users have traditionally been quick adopters of new software. Unlike Android users, who often wait months for updates to reach their specific phone models, iPhone owners typically get updates immediately. This has always been one of Apple’s key security advantages.
What iPhone Users Should Do
The advice from security experts is clear and urgent: update your iPhone now.
Here’s how to check if you’re protected. Open your iPhone settings, tap “General,” then select “Software Update.” If iOS 26 is available for your device, install it as soon as possible. Don’t wait.
The update process takes time, but it’s worth the inconvenience. Make sure your phone is connected to WiFi and plugged into power. Back up your data first if you’re concerned about the transition. If you face connectivity problems after updating, check out how to fix network issues on iPhone.
If you’ve been holding out because you prefer iOS 18’s look and feel, the security trade-off simply isn’t worth it. Your personal data, private communications, and digital identity are at risk.
Looking Ahead
This situation highlights a growing tension in smartphone security. Users want control over when and how they update their devices. But security threats move fast. The window between when a vulnerability is discovered and when it’s actively exploited can be very short.
Apple now faces a difficult choice. Should it force updates on users to protect them? Or should it respect user autonomy while warning them about risks?
For now, the company is relying on warnings and publicity to push adoption rates higher. But with hundreds of millions of iPhones potentially at risk, time is running out.
The message to iPhone users couldn’t be simpler: update now, or accept that your device may be vulnerable to serious security threats. In today’s digital world, that’s not a risk worth taking.
