A class of security flaws exists within Apple’s mobile operating system that are unknown to the vendor and are actively exploited by attackers. These flaws represent a critical threat because developers have had no opportunity to patch them, leaving devices vulnerable to malicious code execution, data theft, and system compromise. An instance of this would be a vulnerability that allows an attacker to remotely install malware on a user’s iPhone simply by the user visiting a compromised website.
The existence of such vulnerabilities is significant because they allow attackers to bypass standard security measures. The secrecy and immediacy of exploitation provide a considerable advantage to threat actors, making device users susceptible to attacks with potentially severe consequences, including financial loss, privacy breaches, and operational disruption. Historically, the discovery and exploitation of these flaws have been linked to targeted attacks against high-value individuals and organizations, as well as widespread malware campaigns.
