Apple has launched iOS 18.3.1, the newest update for its **iPhone** operating system, which includes a crucial security patch aimed at addressing a physical vulnerability.

Although Apple has kept many specifics under wraps—probably to curb potential exploitation—the update targets an issue tied to **USB Restricted Mode**. This patch is intended to prevent hackers from retrieving data from a locked device.

“A physical attack may compromise USB Restricted Mode on a locked device,” Apple noted on its [support page](https://support.apple.com/en-us/122174). “Apple is aware of a report suggesting that this issue might have been leveraged in a highly sophisticated attack against certain targeted individuals.”

This security remedy is also part of **iPadOS 18.3.1**, with a corresponding patch for older iPads made available in **iPadOS 17.7.5**.

If safeguarding your security is essential, it is strongly advised that you update your device at your earliest convenience.