WhatsApp has announced that it has patched a critical security vulnerability affecting the iOS versions of its instant messaging app. For this reason, iPhone, iPad, and Mac users are strongly advised to update their WhatsApp applications if the latest version has not already been installed automatically, according to the German News Agency (DPA).
The company explained that the secure version of WhatsApp for iOS now carries version number 2.25.21.73, while the secure version of WhatsApp Business for iOS is 2.25.21.78. For Mac devices, the safe WhatsApp release is also 2.25.21.78.
The vulnerability in WhatsApp, identified as CVE-2025-55177, may have already been exploited in combination with a separate flaw in Apple’s iOS operating system, known as CVE-2025-43300. Apple has already addressed this iOS vulnerability and released the security update iOS 18.6.2 on August 20, 2025.
How to Check if You’re Protected
-
To ensure you have the secure WhatsApp version installed, you can go to:
Settings → General → Software Update.
From here, you can see whether the latest version is installed and, if not, download and install it manually. -
To verify the installed WhatsApp version on your iPhone or iPad, open:
Settings → Help.
If your device shows an outdated (unsafe) version, open the App Store, tap your profile picture, scroll down to view available updates, and tap Update next to WhatsApp (or choose Update All).
Expert Recommendations
Cybersecurity experts generally advise against relying on manual updates, since this increases the risk of overlooking critical patches. Instead, users should enable automatic updates on their iPhones and iPads. This can be done by navigating to:
Settings → App Store → Automatic Updates.
Additional Context
-
Security vulnerabilities labeled with a CVE (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) number are catalogued in an international database, making it easier for security professionals to track and respond to threats.
-
The fact that WhatsApp acknowledged the possibility of active exploitation makes this patch especially urgent. Attackers may have used the vulnerability to compromise user devices before the fix was released.
-
Keeping apps and operating systems updated is a crucial step in preventing spyware, data theft, and other cyberattacks—especially for widely used apps like WhatsApp.
Support Dawat Media Center
If there were ever a time to join us, it is now. Every contribution, however big or small, powers our journalism and sustains our future. Support the Dawat Media Center from as little as $/€10 – it only takes a minute. If you can, please consider supporting us with a regular amount each month. Thank you
DNB Bank AC # 0530 2294668
Account for international payments: NO15 0530 2294 668
Vipps: #557320
Support Dawat Media Center
If there were ever a time to join us, it is now. Every contribution, however big or small, powers our journalism and sustains our future. Support the Dawat Media Center from as little as $/€10 – it only takes a minute. If you can, please consider supporting us with a regular amount each month. Thank you
DNB Bank AC # 0530 2294668
Account for international payments: NO15 0530 2294 668
Vipps: #557320
Comments are closed.