The company stated that it relies on internal threat intelligence and investigations to detect such attacks.
New Delhi: In a recent announcement, Apple issued a clear warning to iPhone users across 92 countries, including India, alerting them to a potential “mercenary spyware attack” that could compromise their devices. The tech giant sent out threat notifications on Wednesday, urging users to take immediate action to protect their iPhones and personal data.
The email notification, obtained by multiple news outlets, stated that attackers were attempting to “remotely compromise the iPhone” associated with the user’s Apple ID. Apple emphasized the severity of the threat, noting that “mercenary spyware attacks are exceptionally rare and vastly more sophisticated than regular cybercriminal activity or consumer malware”.
Apple’s High Alert Warning
While Apple did not attribute the attacks to any specific group or state actor, the company has previously linked such threats to “state-sponsored attackers” and private companies like NSO Group, the developer of the notorious Pegasus spyware. The shift in terminology to “mercenary spyware attacks” suggests a broader range of potential perpetrators.
Apple has been sending similar threat notifications to users in over 150 countries since 2021, highlighting the ongoing and global nature of these attacks. The company stated that it relies on internal threat intelligence and investigations to detect such attacks, and while absolute certainty is not possible, these notifications are considered “high-confidence alerts”.
How To Protect Against Spyware Attack?
To protect themselves, Apple advises users to enable two-factor authentication, check for unauthorized account activity, update devices to the latest software, and avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments. For those who receive a threat notification, Apple strongly recommends seeking expert assistance, such as the rapid-response emergency security help provided by the nonprofit Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline.
The mercenary spyware industry, valued at an estimated $12 billion per year, poses significant risks to targeted individuals, who are often journalists, activists, politicians, and diplomats. These attacks can grant access to a device’s camera, microphone, and personal data, even when the phone appears to be off.
Apple To Combat Spyware Threats
As Apple continues to address these threats through technical patches and legal action against spyware makers like NSO Group, the company urges all users to remain vigilant and follow best practices for maintaining the security of their devices and personal information.
The latest wave of threat notifications serves as a stark reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of digital threats and the importance of proactive measures to safeguard against increasingly sophisticated attacks targeting individuals across the globe