Apple has distributed security fixes for the DarkSword malware to iOS 18 users.

On April 1, local time, IT outlet TechRadar reported the move was a backported update intended to broaden protection to users who have not upgraded to the latest iOS.

The key is that security fixes provided in iOS 26.3 are now available on iOS 18. The outlet described iOS 18 as the most recent software update prior to iOS 26. It said backporting is the practice of making updates for recent systems available on older systems. That means users who find it difficult to upgrade to iOS 26 due to device or policy constraints, as well as those who have delayed upgrading, can receive the same vulnerability fixes.

The report also highlighted why the update’s reach has expanded. According to the article, Apple previously provided DarkSword-related fixes for iOS 18, but at the time they were issued only for hardware that is not compatible with iOS 26. This time, even devices capable of running iOS 26 can install the same security patch for protection if they remain on iOS 18 without updating.

The update path is simple. Users can open the iPhone Settings app, go to General and then Software Update, check the available update and tap Update Now.

The broad scope of what DarkSword targets also increases the need for the update. The outlet characterized DarkSword not as an ordinary piece of malware but as an extensive vulnerability toolkit. It said attackers can access files, photos, messages and location data on a user’s device, and can also target the microphone and camera, meaning harm can extend beyond simple account theft to privacy violations. The report said there have been cases in which the malware was abused for purposes ranging from spying to cryptocurrency scams.

Meanwhile, criticism in the market of Apple’s response speed has grown in recent days. Apple patched iOS 26 relatively quickly, but it took time to provide the same fixes to all iOS 18 users, which was seen as a questionable decision. The report cited concerns that a strategy of prioritizing patches for the latest version could lead to security gaps, given that many users do not want iOS updates or worry about app compatibility problems following operating system changes.