Apple pushes out significant security update amid China’s ban, spyware concerns

Apple on Thursday released a significant security update for iPhones and iPads to patch newly discovered security vulnerabilities in the devices' system software.

The issue was discovered by researchers at the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab, who said the software flaw was being actively exploited to deliver commercial spyware called Pegasus, developed and sold by the Israeli company NSO Group.

Pegasus is an expensive tool typically used to target dissidents, journalists and political opponents, so ordinary users likely have little to fear. Still, Citizen Lab recommends that all users should “immediately" update their devices.

The security update comes amid reports of China banning American mobile phones for government employees in selected departments, and China is expected to extend the ban to other departments as well. 

The South China Morning Post reported China has barred staff in ministries focused on investment, trade and international affairs from using Apple iPhones.

According to the report, staff in the ministries have time till the end of this month to change their mobile phones.

Reports on China’s move have hurt Apple stocks. Reuters reported that Apple shares tumbled 6.4 per cent over the last two days, wiping $190 billion from its market capitalisation. Shares of Apple suppliers also suffered a hit on Friday.