If you use a MacBook, iMac or Mac mini for study, accounts or a small shop, you may have heard that Screen Sharing had a security problem. This post is for ordinary Mac owners, not IT staff. It explains in plain words what Apple fixed on 6 August 2026, how to see which macOS version you are on, how to update, and how to turn Screen Sharing off if you never use it. The steps take about ten minutes.
Is Screen Sharing on my MacBook safe after Apple's August fix?
Short answer: Updating to the fixed version of macOS closes this flaw. On 6 August 2026 Apple fixed a flaw in Screen Sharing (the feature that lets another Mac or device see and control your screen over the network). Before the fix, a person on the network may have been able to sign in to Screen Sharing without valid credentials. Update macOS, and switch Screen Sharing off if you do not use it.
What exactly did Apple fix?
The flaw is tracked as CVE-2026-65400 (a public reference number for a security problem). Apple's security note of 6 August 2026 describes it in one sentence: an attacker on the network may be able to authenticate to Screen Sharing without valid credentials. In everyday words, someone connected to the same network could get past the sign-in step.
If your Mac runs a newer macOS than these, or a different family, open Apple's security note for this fix and Apple's page listing security releases to see that your version is covered. Apple's wording and lists can change, so check there for today's position.
Is anyone actually using this flaw?
Two different sources speak here. Apple's own page describes the flaw and the fix but makes no statement about it being used in attacks. The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, in an advisory published on 17 August 2026 and updated on 18 August, said open-source reporting indicates it is exploited in the wild. CISA, the United States cyber agency, added it to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalogue on 18 August 2026. The exploitation statement therefore comes from the Cyber Centre and CISA, not from Apple.
Do not ignore the update because your Mac seems to work normally. This is not a reason to panic, only a reason to spend ten minutes on it.
How do I check my macOS version and update?
Step 1: See which version you have
- Click the Apple menu at the top left of the screen.
- Choose About This Mac. The macOS name and version number appear in the window.
Step 2: Update
- Open System Settings, then General, then Software Update.
- If an update is offered, choose Update Now. The wording can differ slightly between versions.
- Leave the Mac plugged in. Do not switch the Mac off while the update installs.
Before any big update, a backup is sensible. Our guide to backing up your Mac before a macOS upgrade shows how.
How do I switch Screen Sharing off?
- Open System Settings, then General, then Sharing.
- Find Screen Sharing in the list and turn its switch off.
- While you are there, look at the other items such as File Sharing and Remote Login. Turn off anything you do not use.
A feature that is switched off cannot be reached from the network, so it is a good habit even when your Mac is fully updated. If a family member or your office IT person set up Screen Sharing for remote help, ask before you switch it off.
Home Wi-Fi, cafes and shared networks
The flaw needed the attacker to be on the network. In India that can mean a shared hostel or PG Wi-Fi, a co-working space, a shop network with many devices, or a cafe hotspot. Home broadband behind your own router is less exposed, but the update is still the right step. Patchy broadband makes large updates slow, so start the download on a stable connection and keep the charger plugged in, since power cuts during an update are a real risk in many cities.
When to get help
- The Mac cannot update, or the update stops with an error.
- The Mac will not start properly after an update.
- You suspect someone has used your Mac and want it checked.
- Your Mac is slow or hot and you cannot tell why.
A Mac still under Apple's warranty should go to Apple's authorised service first. We repair Macs that are out of warranty, or when the owner chooses independent repair. Our Apple MacBook repair page lists what we handle, and we offer doorstep service in Hyderabad. Laptops can also come to us by courier from anywhere in India. ₹149 doorstep visit fee, waived when you approve laptop repair with us. Our guide to authorised and independent MacBook repair explains the choice.
A note from the LRW Engineer Team
Treat updates as routine, like servicing a scooter. Install them soon after release, keep a backup, and turn off sharing features you do not use. If a Mac behaves oddly after an update, do not keep restarting it. Write down what you see and message us on WhatsApp at 7702503336.