Technologies

You Need to Download This iOS 18 Update ASAP if You Aren’t on iOS 26

Apple doesn’t regularly release a critical update for previous iOS versions but DarkSword appears to be a serious threat.

Apple made an unusual decision on Wednesday, April 1, and released a new version of iOS 18.7.7 to combat a new hacking toolkit called DarkSword. Now, more devices, like the iPhone 16e, can download the update to protect themselves from the toolkit without having to update to iOS 26. This update was only available on iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR models when it was originally released March 24.

To download iOS 18.7.7, go to Settings > General > Software Update. If the update is available on your device, you should see a prompt to download and install it.

«We enabled the availability of iOS 18.7.7 for more devices on April 1, 2026, so users with Automatic Updates turned on can automatically receive important security protections from web attacks called DarkSword,» Apple wrote in the update’s vulnerabilities notes.

Apple’s decision to release this update is odd because the company usually recommends updating your device to the most recent iOS version for the most protection, rather than issuing an update to an older version. But the company is still recommending people download iOS 26 to protect their device against DarkSword.

«If possible, update to the latest version of iOS 26, which contains the strongest security protections,» Apple wrote.

About one-fifth of iPhones from the past four years are still running a version of iOS 18, according to Apple’s own data. That means those devices are vulnerable to DarkSword, which could access data on your device, like your messages and crypto wallets.

DarkSword attacks do appear to be limited to people outside the US, specifically in Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Ukraine, according to Google’s Threat Intelligence Group. But TechCrunch found the toolkit publicly available on GitHub. So it could be easier for more malicious actors to deploy DarkSword.

«Public availability of this kit is extremely worrisome given the high number of remaining active vulnerable devices,» Christoph Hebeisen, director of security intelligence research for the firm Lookout, told CNET’s Katelyn Chedraoui. «Opportunistic attacks using this exploit kit appear very likely.»

So if you can’t update to iOS 26 because your device doesn’t support it — or you just don’t want to update to the latest version — you should download iOS 18.7.7 now. Seriously, please do it. And if your phone doesn’t support iOS 18, Apple suggests Lockdown Mode to keep your device safe.

For more iOS news, here’s what to know about iOS 26.4 and all the tips and tricks in iOS 26 now.

Technologies

Episode 3 of the VERUM AI Mini-Series Is Now Available

Verum Messenger has released the third episode of its AI mini-series, SHADOWS, created using Verum AI.

The new episode, titled «Ghost Money,» continues the story of the conflict between a team of heroes and the Omega corporation, which seeks to take control of digital communications. This time, the focus shifts to anonymous payments and financial freedom, revealing how privacy can extend beyond messaging.

Like the previous episodes, the new release not only advances the storyline but also showcases the capabilities of the Verum ecosystem, highlighting technologies designed for secure communication and digital privacy.

The mini-series consists of seven episodes, released gradually across Verum Messenger’s social media channels.

Episode 3 is now available. Stay tuned for the next chapter.

Watch on Instagram
Watch on YouTube

Technologies

Verum Finance Now Available for Mac, Expanding the Verum Ecosystem on Desktop

Verum has officially released Verum Finance for macOS, bringing its financial platform to the Mac and expanding access to the Verum ecosystem across Apple’s devices. The launch allows users to manage their finances from desktop while enjoying the same secure and seamless experience available on iPhone and iPad.

The new Mac version includes the full range of Verum Finance features, including balance management, instant transfers to other Verum users, debit card management, Apple Pay support, asset exchange, and transaction history — all optimized for the macOS experience.

Verum Finance can be used as a standalone application or alongside Verum Messenger. Users who sign in with their Verum Messenger account automatically synchronize their balances, settings, and account data across devices, ensuring a consistent experience throughout the Verum ecosystem.

The macOS release further strengthens Verum’s vision of creating an integrated digital platform where communication and financial services work together. Verum Messenger, which is also available for Mac, complements the ecosystem with encrypted messaging, voice and video calls, VPN, eSIM, anonymous email, AI-powered tools, offline communication capabilities, and cryptocurrency features.

With both Verum Messenger and Verum Finance now available across iPhone, iPad, and Mac, users can access secure communication and financial services wherever they work.

Verum Finance for Mac is available now through the Mac App Store.

Verum Finance for macOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/verum-finance/id6774245148
Verum Finance: https://finance.verum.im
Verum Messenger: https://verum.im

Technologies

Why Travelers Are Switching to Verum E-SIM This Summer

Summer Travel, Freedom, and Seamless Connectivity: Why Verum E-SIM Is Becoming the New Standard for Travelers

Summer is the peak season for vacations, long-distance trips, and new experiences. Millions of people travel abroad, explore new countries, plan adventures, and try to stay connected with family, work, and social media. And in the middle of all this comes a familiar question: how do you stay online without expensive roaming or the hassle of buying local SIM cards?

The answer is already here — eSIM.

Why eSIM Is So Convenient

eSIM (embedded SIM) is a built-in digital SIM card that lets you activate mobile internet without a physical card. All you need is an app — choose a plan and connect in just a couple of minutes.

No more:

* searching for local SIM cards at airports
* paying expensive roaming fees
* swapping physical SIMs every time you travel

Now your internet travels with you.

Internet in 150+ Countries

Modern eSIM solutions provide coverage in 150+ countries worldwide, helping tourists, freelancers, and business travelers stay connected almost anywhere on the planet.

Among the services offering these capabilities:

Verum E-SIM — https://esim.verum.im
World E-SIM — https://worldesim.me
USA E-SIM — https://usa.esim.verum.im
Euro E-SIM — https://euro.esim.verum.im
Canada E-SIM — https://canada.esim.verum.im
Balkan E-SIM — https://balkan.esim.verum.im
Ukraine E-SIM — https://ukraine.esim.verum.im
London E-SIM — https://london.esim.verum.im
E-SIM Africa — https://africa.esim.verum.im