Does iOS still get any security fixes?

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Does iOS still get any security fixes?

For iPhones that don't run iOS 13, how long is it still safe to run iOS 12? Is there some period for which security fixes are provided?

Posted on Sep 30, 2019 1:39 PM

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Answer 1

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Phil0124

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Sep 30, 2019 2:02 PM in response to RedTup

Well, Apple has never said how long after an iOS version is superseded it will keep providing updates for it but even iOS 9 and iOS 10, got updates last month for a bug.

While its not common to see updates once its superseded, its also not unheard off.

As to when an iOS version stops being secure. That happens when a vulnerability goes un-patched or is not fixed, but its impossible to know when Apple will choose to do either one.

As of now, iOS 12 is still secure, and will continue to be so, until some vulnerability is found that affects it and apple decides not to fix it.

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Answer 2

Oct 1, 2019 6:37 AM in response to RedTup

You can check out Apple's Refurbished store and see if one shows up eventually there: Refurbished iPhone - Apple

There is no known malware or viruses that can affect an iPhone unless it is jailbroken. Restoring a device to factory condition will remove any jailbreak that may have been applied.

I'd be more concerned with Activation lock: Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Apple Watch - Apple Support

If the previous owner failed to remove it from their account you won't be able to use it.

I wouldn't look at getting a 3 year old phone at this point. Honestly, the iPhone 7 or 8 are well sized, they aren't really big.

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Answer 3

RedTup Author

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Sep 30, 2019 2:54 PM in response to Phil0124

This is good to hear. For now I'll keep using my 5S and hope that Apple releases a pants-pocket-sized phone in the spring. I was worried that the 5S was soon to be insecure and I'd need to switch to Android urgently.

For now I will only have iOS 13 on my iPad, which fits well in a jacket pocket, but often I'm not wearing a jacket.

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Answer 4

RedTup Author

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Oct 1, 2019 6:01 AM in response to Elitegate

I see iPhone SEs being sold on Amazon, but it is hard to know if the battery still works or the phone is free from malware. Apple doesn't advertise selling SEs. Is there some back-channel way of getting an SE from Apple?

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Answer 5

RedTup Author

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Oct 1, 2019 10:40 AM in response to Phil0124

When the iPhone 6 came out I found that one could fit in my pocket, but I couldn't sit down without it digging into me. So I haven't bought another phone since. The 7 and 8 are at least as big. Some would strap the phone to themselves, hold the phone in their hand, wear cargo pants or carry a purse, but I don't like those options.

Others in my family have upgraded twice since the 5S, but some say they'd prefer the smaller size for their next phone.

The oldest iPhone being sold on Apple's Refurbished site is an X. The menu only lists X and 8, and even the 8 is grayed out. They don't look like they are planning to sell SEs.

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