Using an old iPad

[Cleverclocks]

I have an old 2014 model iPad which is no longer supported by Apple. I read online that it's risky to use these as they won't get important security updates, but I'm not clear what the risks are.

I wanted to use this iPad for my daughter who needs it for homework via an app. Apart from the homework app, she would mainly have kids apps - YouTube kids, CBeebies etc. Is there a real risk if I use this iPad in this way...or is it just scaremongering to make me spend £££ on a newer model??

Would really appreciate impartial advice (I suspect I know what Apple would say if I asked them!)

I have an old iPad and a fair few apps do not work on it, including an email app

I wouldn't be worried about security but can you even get the homework app on it?

I am using a 2014 model right now, I assume it is 2014 as I got it for my 40th birthday and I’m 49. It’s a bit slow but everything works on it.

The risks are that your home wifi network could be hacked through it, and any passwords for any app used on tge iPad would be vulnerable. If it was used as a way into your home wifi, and passwords you use on any machine connected to your home network would also be vulnerable.

You can minimise the risk by using a VPN, however you may find that it is too old to install the VPN app. Alternatively, set up a guest wifiand use this in order to separate that iPad from the rest of your network.

If your daughter uses the iPad on any family member wifi, advise them to do the same otherwise all their passwords will be vulnerable.

Best not to use email on that iPad either.

I'd be surprised if it's no longer supported by Apple that you'd even be able to download the app. I expect the app will state it needs a particular iOs number or newer. I had an old iPad and eventually everything stopped working because apps needed an update my iOs wouldn't support.

I have an old iPad that DS used to use but the vast majority of apps don't work because you can't update the iOS.

Thank you everyone. I haven't yet even tried to download the app 🙈 so if that doesn't work then the risk of using the iPad doesn't even matter!

The risk of a hacker accessing the wifi network sounds pretty bad. Thank you for explaining that.