Rapid security response update

It is possible to disable automatic download and installation of RSR (Rapid Security Response) Updates from iPad settings:

Settings > General > Software Updates > Security Responses & System Files - set to OFF

(shown here enabled)

As you will note from the associated information note below the setting, some system files will be automatically updated regardless of the setting.

Be aware that RSRs are issued to patch either an emerging or active security threat - the RSR being intended to add additional protection until such time a full fix is incorporated and released in a subsequent System Software Update.

Perhaps view an RSR as an emergency security update - designed to protect your iPad and your sensitive information from compromise.

About Rapid Security Responses for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS - Apple Support

Also see:

About the security content of Rapid Security Responses for iOS 16.5.1 and iPadOS 16.5.1 - Apple Support

RSR 16.5.1(c) is current - this being intended to mitigate a zero-day security vulnerability. The prior RSR 16.5.1(a) was withdrawn.

You can simply go to Settings, General, Software Update and toggle off Automatic Updates.

The update will be hidden from view, but you will have the notification of it listed on the main Settings page.

You shpuld run this security update, though, as this fixes a critical security issue/hole in iPadOS, but the choice is yours to make.

This download/install is a wireless, WiFi, over-the-air update ONLY!

This update cannot be done using a smart phone WiFi hotspot.

It must be done through a dedicted, wirless WiFi MODEM/router network box, hardwired to an Internet Service provider.

If you decide to download/install the rapid security response update,

After ANY iOS/iPadOS upgrade/update, you should ALWAYS perform a simple hard reset/forced restart of your Apple mobile device.

For iPad models with a Home button, do a simple hard reset/forced restart of your iPad by holding down both the Home and sleep/wake/power button simultaneously until your iPad goes to black and restarts with Apple logo, then release the buttons.

OR

For much newer design iPad models, without a Home button, try the new simple hard reset/forced restart procedure for the new 2018-2022 iPad Pros, 2020/21 iPad Air 4 and 5, the 2021 iPad Mini 6 and the new 2022, 10th gen base models,

1. Press and release the volume button closest to the top Power button

2. Then immediately ( and quickly ) press and release the volume button farthest from the top Power button.

3. Then, press and hold the top single sleep/wake/power button You will see the Slide to Power off button, but keep on holding down the power button until you see the Apple logo, then let it go.

Once you have performed all the steps, wait for a few seconds and your 2018-2022 iPad will boot up completely to the iPad’s Lock screen.

Tap, read and follow this Apple support link below.

Force restart iPad - Apple Support

Best of Luck to You!