iPhone users warned of serious security threat from this Apple feature
Written by
Alicia Hempsted
Reviewed by
Kara Gammell
5 min read
Updated: 30 May 2025
A security risk has been found in the Apple AirPlay feature that puts millions of devices at risk of being hacked. Find out how you can protect your iPhone.
A cybersecurity firm Oglio Security discovered 23 vulnerabilities within the AirPlay protocol and software development kit (SDK) that’s used by third-parties to make devices compatible with AirPlay.
These security flaws allow hackers to remotely connect to Apple devices, after which they can install malware and steal users’ data. They can also access local networks through the infected device which allows them to connect to other devices as well.
These kinds of attacks are called ‘Remote Code Execution’ (RCE) attacks. This means that attackers can hack into your device remotely, which is why these vulnerabilities have been named “AirBorne” by the cybersecurity firm. Hackers don’t need physical access to your phone at all to completely take it over.
While Apple has acted fast to close the threat on their end, many third-party devices compatible with AirPlay haven’t received important updates to their security and some might never receive these important updates.
This could mean that potentially millions of Apple devices are vulnerable to attacks of this kind.
How to protect your device
Oglio have recommended that Apple users fully disable the AirPlay feature when not in use and limit AirPlay connections to only trusted devices.
You can restrict your AirPlay connections in settings by following these steps:
Go to ‘Settings’
Go to ‘AirPlay & Continuity’ or ‘AirPlay & Handoff’
For the ‘Allow AirPlay for’ option, select ‘Current User’
You also should update your device as soon as you can and keep up with any new software updates.
Kara Gammell
Personal finance expert at MoneySuperMarket
Personal finance expert at MoneySuperMarket
Keeping your device updated is your first line of defence
Most device manufacturers will regularly release software updates to patch holes in security, so it’s important that you install these updates when prompted to. Some will be automatically installed while others may require a restart.
If you haven’t received any updates for a while, it may be worth checking on the manufacturer’s website in case any have been missed.
For more advice on how to protect your devices from hackers, you can check out our guides to staying safe on the internet and setting strong passwords.
MoneySuperMarket also found earlier in 2025 that amore than 4.5million UK households are vulnerable to cyberattacks due to outdated Wi-Fi routers, so make sure you have closed these vulnerabilities as well.
