Updating to macOS 10.13.1 brings the root error back

If you've just updated to macOS High Sierra 10.13.1, unfortunately, the security update for Mac unlocking bugs is ineffective.

Just last week, macOS users panicked when the High Sierra encountered an error allowing anyone to log in and authenticate to have system administration rights, in other words, unlocking a Mac and having all rights to use the device. All they need to do is enter the username 'root' and leave the password blank. This simple mistake is very serious because anyone can easily take over macOS.

See also: Error on macOS allows creating root account without password

After the error was complained by Twitter users and the press, Apple quickly released Security Update 2017-001 security update with an apology. However, users quickly realize that this update fails the file sharing function. Once again Apple had to come up with another update to fix this. Just recently temporarily, users who updated macOS to 10.13.1 were painfully aware that the error returned.

See also: Apple released macOS unlocking patch, with apology

The Wired page that reported many users after updating to macOS 10.13.1 has the same error. In this case, you will have to update the security again (although it should be automatically updated) after upgrading to the new OS version. However, the patch will not work if you have not rebooted the machine. The Apple documentation did not notify the user that it was necessary to reboot, the patch would work.

Updating OS, the root error returns

Thomas Reed, an Apple researcher at MalwareBytes, confirmed that the macOS version 10.13.1 returned the root error. He reinstalled Apple's security patch, but found that if he didn't reboot, he could still type 'root' and unlock the High Sierra as usual.

Apple has not commented on this new issue. Perhaps they will provide a security patch for those who have just upgraded the operating system.