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DarkSword iPhone Hacking Technique: Hundreds of Millions Vulnerable on iOS 18

Canopy Security
iPhone security vulnerability DarkSword exploit

Google, iVerify, and Lookout researchers revealed DarkSword, a sophisticated iPhone hacking technique capable of instantly and silently compromising hundreds of millions of iOS devices visiting infected websites. The exploit works against iOS 18 (still used by ~24% of iPhones as of last month) but not the latest iOS 19. Russian hackers deployed the technique in the wild via malicious websites, stealing personal data without user interaction.

Key Takeaways

  • DarkSword iOS exploit chain enables full device compromise via malicious websites; affects iOS 18 and earlier versions
  • Approximately 24% of iPhones still running iOS 18 as of last month; exploit chain can steal all personal data instantly
  • Discovered by Google Threat Analysis Group, iVerify, Lookout; already deployed by Russian cybercriminals; no user interaction required

Original source: Ars Technica (from Wired)