Apple Warns of Pegasus-Like Spyware Attack on iPhones: 98 Countries Alerted
Apple Warns of Pegasus-like Spyware Attack on iPhones
Apple has expressed concerns about potential spyware attacks similar to Pegasus on iPhones. According to Apple, “mercenary spyware” is targeting iPhone users. This spyware attempts to access iPhones remotely.
Warning Sent to Users in 98 Countries
Apple sent warning emails on Wednesday to its users in 98 countries, including India, who might be potential victims of this “mercenary spyware” attack. This spyware is similar to Pegasus from Israel’s NSO Group and aims to gain unauthorized access to devices. Attackers using this “mercenary spyware” employ extensive resources to target specific individuals and their devices. These attacks can cost millions of dollars and are very difficult to detect and prevent.
Warnings Sent to Indian Users
Apple sent warning emails to several Indian users on Wednesday night. The subject of the email read: “Alert: Apple has detected targeted mercenary spyware attacks on your iPhone.” The email stated, “Apple has discovered that you are the victim of a ‘mercenary spyware’ attack, attempting to remotely hack the iPhone associated with your Apple ID -xxx-. Please take this seriously.”
Apple’s Second Spyware Alert This Year
Apple has sent its users a second spyware attack warning this year. Previously, on April 11, 2024, the company issued a similar warning to iPhone users in 92 countries, including India.
Threat Notification Last October
In October of last year, Apple sent threat notifications regarding “state-sponsored” attacks to several countries, including India. In India, this threat notification was sent to several opposition leaders, including TMC leader Mahua Moitra, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, and some journalists. The threat notification from Apple stated: “Apple believes you are being targeted by state-sponsored attackers who are attempting to remotely compromise the iPhone associated with your Apple ID.”
If your device is compromised by state-sponsored attacks, they can access your sensitive data, communications, camera, and microphone. While it is possible this is a false alarm, please take this warning seriously.” However, the government denied the phone hacking allegations.
Threat Notification for Awareness and Assistance
According to Apple’s website, threat notifications are designed to inform and assist users who may be targeted by state-sponsored attackers. These notifications include information on steps to secure the phone, such as enabling Lockdown Mode. Lockdown Mode helps protect devices from extremely rare and highly sophisticated cyber attacks. When Lockdown Mode is enabled, your device will not function as usual. To prevent attacks, certain apps, websites, and features are limited.
How Does Spyware Work?
- Infiltrates Your Device: This can happen when you visit an unsecured website, unknowingly install an unsecured application, or even open a file attachment.
- Captures Your Data: Once spyware is on your device, it starts collecting data, which can range from your web activities to screen captures and even your keystrokes.
- Delivers Data to a Third Party: Once captured, the data is sent to the spyware creator, who either uses it directly or sells it to a third party. This data can include credit card and bank login details.
Follow Three Steps for Security
- Update Your Device to the Latest Software: This includes the latest safety features.
- Secure Your Device with a Passcode: Use two-factor authentication for your Apple ID and a strong password.
- Only Install Apps from the App Store.
