Apple Rolls Out DarkSword Exploit Protection to More Devices

Apple has expanded the rollout of DarkSword exploit protection by making the latest iOS 18.7.7 update available to more devices, with automatic updates helping users receive the security protections from web attacks called DarkSword. According to Apple advisory, the updates address two dozen security flaws that could allow attackers to compromise devices or data, including kernel code execution, keychain access, activation lock bypass, and web browsing risks.

The new patch cycle follows DarkSword’s links to Coruna and its use by state-sponsored threat groups and commercial spyware vendors, with at least two Russian nation-state groups leveraging the kit in attacks. Apple previously released patches for DarkSword in 2025, and iVerify estimated around 200 million devices running iOS versions 18.4 to 18.6.2 may have been vulnerable when DarkSword emerged.

The updates are now live for devices including iPhones such as XR, XS, XS Max, 11, SE (2nd and 3rd generation), 12, 13, 15, 16 and 16e, and iPad models such as 5th Gen mini, 7th Gen iPad, various iPad Air and Pro configurations.