IF you’re using a very old iPhone, you’re putting yourself at risk.
Certain models are now so old that they no longer receive the latest updates.
AppleBe wary of very old iPhone models[/caption]
Usually iOS updates contain new features, so you might not feel too worried.
But these iOS updates also contain important security fixes.
Every time a new iOS patch comes out, your un-updated iPhone is technically considered “at risk”.
That’s because there are security holes that you haven’t installed the fixes for yet.
It’s a bit like someone finally installing a lock on your door, but you haven’t turned the key to actually lock it yet.
Until you do, your device (and its info) may be in danger.
Apple’s security pages reveal that the iOS 16.3 update – which arrived earlier this week – fixes several flaws.
But many iPhones simply can’t get iOS 16.3.
Here’s a list of all the iOS 16 (and iOS 16.3) supported devices:
iPhone 14iPhone 14 PlusiPhone 14 ProiPhone 14 Pro MaxiPhone 13iPhone 13 miniiPhone 13 ProiPhone 13 Pro MaxiPhone 12iPhone 12 miniiPhone 12 ProiPhone 12 Pro MaxiPhone 11iPhone 11 ProiPhone 11 Pro MaxiPhone XsiPhone XS MaxiPhone XRiPhone XiPhone 8iPhone 8 PlusiPhone SE (2nd generation or later)
Thankfully, Apple does occasionally issue security updates to very old iPhones.
But they often come later, and aren’t always guaranteed.
This week Apple issued a new security update called iOS 12.5.7, which includes security fixes from iOS 16.2 (the update before iOS 16.3).
iOS 16 cuts off at the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone SE (2nd generation or later).
But iOS 12 supports phones all the way back to the iPhone 5S, which came out in 2013.
Check for the new update by going to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone.
If you’re using an iPhone 5 or older, it’s now mostly abandoned.
That means you’ll want to avoid using:
iPhone 5iPhone 4SiPhone 4iPhone 3GSiPhone 3GiPhone
And even devices that can’t get iOS 16 are riskier to use than newer iPhone models.
That would include:
iPhone 7iPhone 6SiPhone 6iPhone 5S
So if you’re still hanging on to that extremely old iPhone, now might be a good time to upgrade.
The cost of updating your iPhone model to a newer version may be far less than the consequences of a major hack attack.
And you can pick up iOS 16-friendly iPhone models for very cheap.
Best Phone and Gadget tips and hacks
Looking for tips and hacks for your phone? Want to find those secret features within social media apps? We have you covered…
How to delete your Instagram account
What does pending mean on Snapchat?
How to check if you’ve been blocked on WhatsApp
How to drop a pin on Google Maps
How can I change my Facebook password?
How to go live on TikTok
How to clear the cache on an iPhone
What is NFT art?
What is OnlyFans?
What does Meta mean?
Get all the latest WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and other tech gadget stories here.
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online Tech & Science team? Email us at [email protected]