Tool used by hackers to target iPhones on older iOS versions for stealing personal data leaked online.
It's easy to download and use, making the risk much higher for users who haven’t updated to the latest iOS version.
Apple has already fixed the issue, so updating your iPhone is the most important step.
Researchers have found that iPhones running older software versions are at risk. According to them, a new threat called DarkSword is actively harvesting personal data from private health records to saved passwords. The hacking tool attacks iPhones that are using older iOS versions (from iOS 18.4 to 18.7). Hackers are using normal-looking websites to secretly install this tool on those phones, which makes it a very serious threat to people’s data. Even more worrying, the tool has now been leaked and is publicly available on GitHub, so more hackers can easily access and use it.
SurveyExperts say the leaked DarkSword files are basic in structure, built using simple web technologies like HTML and JavaScript. This means almost anyone can copy and run them with little effort. Researchers who studied the earlier version of the tool confirmed that the new files still rely on similar systems, even if slightly modified.
The biggest concern is how easily the tool can be used. According to analysts, this exploit is carried out without any further configuration and is capable of infecting devices running older versions of their operating system, such as iOS 18. A security enthusiast claimed to have successfully tested this exploit on an older version of an iPad using samples he found online.
Once this spyware is set up on a system, it has the capacity to access and retrieve sensitive information on the infected system, including contact information, messages, call logs, and saved passwords. All this information is sent to a server that is accessed by the attacker. There are sections of this exploit that point to other actions that can be taken after initial access has been gained, giving the attacker a level of control.
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Apple fixed the problem earlier this month with an emergency update for devices that cannot install the newest version of the system. They said that devices using the latest software are safe from the DarkSword attacks. Apple also highlighted a feature called Lockdown Mode, which helps protect devices from such threats.
According to the recent reports, one-fourth of the Apple iPhone users are still running the older iOS versions. The reason for not updating to the latest version of iOS is still unclear. Apple has once again urged its users to update their devices immediately so that their personal data is safe against the malware like DarkSword.
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Bhaskar Sharma
Bhaskar is a senior copy editor at Digit India, where he simplifies complex tech topics across iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and emerging consumer tech. His work has appeared in iGeeksBlog, GuidingTech, and other publications, and he previously served as an assistant editor at TechBloat and TechReloaded. A B.Tech graduate and full-time tech writer, he is known for clear, practical guides and explainers. View Full Profile
