Apple has recently alerted iPhone users across 98 countries about potential mercenary spyware attacks. This is the second such alert campaign from the tech giant this year, following a similar notification in April to users in 92 nations.
Apple Alert- Continued Vigilance Since 2021
Since 2021, Apple has been proactively sending threat notifications to its users, covering over 150 countries to date. The latest round of warnings, issued on Wednesday, does not specify the attackers’ identities or the countries where users received the alerts. Apple’s warning message states:
“Apple detected that you are being targeted by a mercenary spyware attack that is trying to remotely compromise the iPhone associated with your Apple ID -xxx-. This attack is likely targeting you specifically because of who you are or what you do. Although it’s never possible to achieve absolute certainty when detecting such attacks, Apple has high confidence in this warning — please take it seriously.”
Impact in India
Among the countries affected, India has seen several users receive these threat notifications. This follows a pattern observed in October when Apple sent similar warnings to journalists and politicians in the country. Amnesty International later discovered Pegasus spyware, developed by the Israeli firm NSO Group, on the iPhones of prominent Indian journalists.
Shift in Terminology
In its latest communications, Apple emphasizes the sensitivity of its threat identification methods, advising users that revealing additional details could help attackers evade future detection. Notably, Apple has shifted its terminology from “state-sponsored” to “mercenary spyware attacks,” indicating the involvement of private entities rather than just state actors.
Protecting User Privacy
Apple’s continued efforts to notify and protect its users underscore the growing threat of sophisticated spyware attacks. The company’s proactive stance aims to safeguard user privacy and ensure that individuals, particularly those targeted for who they are or what they do, remain vigilant against these high-risk cyber threats.
