Apple is known for its walled ecosystem. On one hand, it leaves the tech enthusiasts cold as they cannot customize it. But on the other
hand, it provides stability and security, which most of us want from our electronic devices. However, every now and then, chinks appear in Apple's shining armor. At Pwn2Own conference, Apple had to face the humiliation of getting its browser, Safari 5.0.3 hacked into. Although, if it is any consolation for Apple fans, then Microsoft's Internet Explorer 8 also met the same fate. Since, Microsoft is currently working on IE9, It will be good for the company to look into the crack and fix the things for upcoming iteration of the browser. The funny thing is that Safari's 5.0.4 version still retains some of the codes which were exploited by the hackers.
Apple's recently released iOS 4.3 update has also received some less than flattering reviews. Online security firm Sophos cast a doubt on the efficacy of the update by stating that the update may leave older generation iPhone and iPod Touch open to security threats. The security firm claimed that the new update failed to provide patches for the existing security holes. Some may claim that the Cupertino company has left its older devices orphaned so that it may boost sales of the newer models. While 4.3 update makes newer models more secure, it leaves the older devices as vulnerable as they earlier were. Although, on the bright side, now you have a legitimate excuse for springing for a new Apple gizmo.
Since Apple is going more mainstream now and is getting bigger share of market, it is not difficult to see that the system is now becoming more attractive to hacker community. Earlier, Apple products were considered safe and secure, thanks to the company's solid standardized 'walled garden' approach. But the other important factor was the relative obscurity of the Apple system. With a tight niche market, Apple products were not an attractive target for hackers, who thrive on mass threats. But now, with the proliferation of iDevices, it would be interesting to see if Apple can maintain its reputation for providing secure and stable experience.