Apple Sends Spyware Threat Notifications to Users in 110 Countries
Apple has recently warned a group of users across 110 countries about imminent threats from mercenary spyware. Notifications were disseminated yesterday to individuals who may have encountered advanced hacking attempts. The message informed recipients that a spyware attack aimed at their iPhones had been detected, providing steps for safeguarding their devices and personal information. The company’s alert system, operational since 2021, has now expanded its reach to over 150 countries. TechCrunch reports that the alerts not only assist users in obtaining help but also often lead to further investigations, as noted by Scott-Railton from Citizen Lab. The perpetrators behind these threats remain unknown.
Key facts
- Apple sent threat notifications to users in 110 countries.
- The notifications warn of mercenary spyware attacks.
- The alerts were sent yesterday.
- The notification message is: 'Apple detected a mercenary spyware attack targeted at your iPhone. There are actions you can take now to protect your data and device.'
- Mercenary spyware attacks cost millions of dollars and have a short shelf life.
- Common targets include tech firms, journalists, activists, politicians, and diplomats.
- Apple has high confidence in the accuracy of its threat notifications.
- The system has been active since 2021 and has notified users in over 150 countries in total.
- Affected users are advised to switch to Lockdown Mode.
- Apple says it has never seen a device successfully hacked while in Lockdown Mode.
- TechCrunch broke the story.
- Citizen Lab's Scott-Railton commented on the importance of notifications.
Entities
Institutions
- Apple
- TechCrunch
- Citizen Lab