Your iPhone is under threat, and ignoring this could leave you vulnerable to serious attacks. But here's the shocking truth: simply turning your iPhone off and on again could be your first line of defense. Recent warnings from Apple (1, 2) highlight that millions of devices are at risk due to outdated software. If you’re not running iOS 26.2 or iOS 18.7.3, you’re potentially exposed to new spyware and exploits targeting Apple’s ecosystem. And this is the part most people miss: even if you’ve updated, a manual reboot is crucial to ensure your device is fully protected.
Here’s why this matters: Apple’s pre-holiday warning about new spyware came with a catch. Devices capable of running iOS 26 (like the iPhone 11 or newer) can no longer stick to iOS 18.7.3, even if they’ve updated to it. Controversially, reports conflict on how many users are affected—some say over half of all iPhones are at risk, while others suggest the numbers are more nuanced. What’s undeniable is that hundreds of millions of devices are potentially vulnerable.
If you’re still on iOS 18, you’re playing with fire. Regular reboots can help kill malicious software running in the background, though persistent threats may restart alongside your phone. But here’s where it gets controversial: simply using your phone’s reboot feature might not be enough. France’s ANSSI, a cybersecurity authority akin to America’s CISA, warns that some spyware can simulate a reboot to deceive users. Their advice? Perform a complete shutdown by holding the volume and side buttons until the power-off slider appears, then wait 30 seconds before turning it back on. This ensures all memory-based spyware is wiped clean.
Why is this critical? Spyware often exploits zero-click vulnerabilities, delivered through platforms like iMessage, with no guaranteed behavioral defense. Running the latest iOS version is non-negotiable, but regular restarts—at least weekly—are a best practice, especially if you’re on outdated firmware.
Apple provides two methods for a proper shutdown: the standard power-off slider approach, or a more forceful method involving quick presses of the volume buttons followed by holding the side button until the Apple logo appears. But here’s the question: Are you willing to take the extra step to protect your device, or will you risk falling victim to these sophisticated attacks? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think regular reboots are overkill, or a necessary safeguard in today’s digital landscape?
