Apple is taking a major step to protect crypto users with its new iPhone 17, introducing Memory Integrity Enforcement (MIE) — a powerful security upgrade that aims to block zero-day exploits targeting crypto wallets and Passkey signing operations.
Memory Integrity Enforcement: A New Layer of Protection
The highlight of iPhone 17’s security update is MIE, which uses Enhanced Memory Tagging Extension (EMTE)-style memory tagging to detect and block dangerous memory access issues such as out-of-bounds and use-after-free errors.
Cybersecurity firm Hacken praised the feature, saying it “meaningfully reduces the risk of attackers using memory-corruption zero-days to take control of signing code.” This is especially important for frequent crypto users and high-net-worth individuals who regularly sign transactions.
Why This Matters for Crypto Wallet Security
Memory-corruption vulnerabilities account for nearly 70% of software flaws, making them a prime target for zero-day attacks. By enabling MIE by default, Apple is making it significantly harder for hackers to exploit these weaknesses, particularly in wallet apps and Passkey flows that depend on secure in-process signing operations.
Hacken noted that the feature is always-on for both kernel and user-level processes, raising the cost and difficulty of spyware and exploit development.
Not a Complete Solution
While MIE adds a strong layer of defense, it’s not a catch-all solution. It does not protect against phishing attacks, social engineering, malicious websites, or compromised apps. Security experts still recommend using hardware wallets for large crypto holdings and maintaining strong security habits.
“Security improvements reduce overall risk but don’t make devices invulnerable,” Hacken warned, advising users to stay vigilant and keep devices updated.
A Growing Need for Apple Crypto Security
Apple users have been under increasing threat from sophisticated attacks. Recently, a zero-click exploit was discovered that could compromise iPhones, iPads, and Macs without user interaction, prompting Apple to issue emergency security patches.
Earlier this year, Kaspersky revealed that some malicious SDKs in both the App Store and Play Store were scanning users’ photo galleries for crypto wallet recovery phrases. In 2023, Trust Wallet even advised iPhone users to disable iMessage due to a high-risk zero-day exploit circulating on the Dark Web.
Takeaway for Crypto Holders
With iPhone 17’s Memory Integrity Enforcement, Apple is clearly prioritizing user security — a crucial move as crypto adoption grows. For everyday users and serious traders alike, the update offers stronger wallet protection, though caution and safe practices remain essential.
