macOS Update: critical updates for Winter 2023 - quick start guide

Overview

In February 2023, Apple released updates to address a set of serious vulnerabilities affecting most Apple devices.  Security researchers have released a report detailing how these vulnerabilities may be exploited. Successful exploitation could allow an attacker to gain access to sensitive information, install applications, or spy on users. This could happen merely by the user visiting a maliciously-crafted website. It does not require any other direct user action. This is essentially the worst kind of security vulnerability. 

If you have an Apple product(s), you need to update your devices to install Apple's fixes for these vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities are serious, and all members of our campus community should follow the steps below to avoid compromising important personal and college data. 

Note: Throughout these instructions you will see the words "update" and "upgrade." Here's Apple's explanation of the difference.

Update your macOS (Macbooks, iMacs, Mac minis)

1. Prepare

   1. Backup your computer.

      1. Faculty and staff can use the following link regarding backing up your computer:  Backing Up Your Data and File Storage.

   2. Know your current macOS version.  If your computer is updated to 13.2.1, you're all done!

   3. Check the readiness of your disk to make sure you have available space to install the update. 
       

2. Update your operating system
   
   Find out which macOS version your Mac is using:  Know your current macOS version.

   • Once you know which version is currently installed, you can proceed with the update.

   • macOS versions 11 and 12: Update your operating system

     • Note:  You are not required to upgrade your computer to MacOS 13 (Ventura) at this time.  Apple has released security patches to update MacOS 11 and 12.  To install only the point updates, and not do a complete upgrade process, select "Other Updates are Available" as shown in the image below:

     • 

     • If you would like to complete the full upgrade process to MacOS 13, which is a lengthy process, select "Upgrade Now" as shown above.

       • Note:  Testing by Ursinus Tech Support indicates that MacOS 13 is compatible with common software used by faculty and staff on campus.  Therefore, you are free to upgrade to MacOS 13 whenever you wish.  Note, however, that some of the software installed on your Mac may also have to be updated in tandem with an upgrade to MacOS 13.

   • macOS version 13: Update your operating system to 13.2.1

3. After you update

   1. Check that your system will look for future updates automatically
      We highly recommend that you enable automatic updates!

   2. If you run into any trouble during or after the update/upgrade process, contact Ursinus Tech Support at 610-409-3789 or by creating a ticket.

Update your iPhone and iPad

• Follow Apple's instructions for updating your iPhone and iPad

Update other Apple products

• Apple Watch instructions
• iHome instructions
• AppleTV instructions

More Information

• Security Week published an article about this security vulnerability
• Apple's official announcement about the security vulnerability