Apple forced to issue fixes after security vulnerability

Apple has been forced to release three security patches after a vulnerability was discovered in its latest update that could have allowed malicious hackers to take control of devices.

Forbes magazine was the first to report last week on the security flaw dubbed SockPuppet, which came in with the iOS 12.4 update and could affect all Apple computers, mobile devices and even TV set-top boxes.

In response, the tech company hurriedly launched three patches for macOS (10.14.6), iOS (12.4.1) and tvOS (12.4.1), which all organisations and consumers using Apple devices are advised to download and use with immediate effect.

However, analysts have raised questions as to why a bug that was already known and successfully corrected in iOS 12.3 went on to reappear in version 12.4.

"Apple doesn't disclose, discuss, or confirm security issues until an investigation has occurred and patches or releases are available," a statement in Apple's security update said.