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Apple has expressed the threat of spyware attacks like Pegasus on iPhones. According to Apple, iPhone users are being targeted through ‘mercenary spyware’. Through this, attempts are being made to access the iPhone.
Regarding this, Apple on Wednesday sent a warning mail to its users in 98 countries including India, who could be potential victims of ‘mercenary spyware’ attack. This spyware is like Pegasus of Israel’s NSO Group. Its purpose is to hack the device and gain unauthorized access.
Mercenary spyware attackers use enormous resources to target a small number of specific people and their devices. These spyware attacks cost millions of dollars. They are very difficult to detect and prevent.
Apple sent warning mail to some Indian users
- Apple has sent a warning mail to some Indian users on Wednesday night. Its subject reads – Alert: Apple has detected a targeted mercenary spyware attack on your iPhone
- The mail reads, ‘Apple has detected that you are being subjected to a ‘Mercenary Spyware’ attack that is attempting to remotely hack the iPhone associated with your Apple ID -xxx-. Please take this seriously.’
Company’s second alert this year
Apple has sent its users the second alert this year regarding spyware attack. Earlier on April 11, 2024, the company had sent a similar alert to iPhone users in 92 countries including India.
Apple sent threat notification in October last year
In October last year, Apple had sent a notification of ‘state sponsored’ attack in many countries including India. In India, that threat notification was sent to many leaders of opposition parties including TMC leader Mahua Moitra, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor and some journalists.
Apple wrote in the threat notification – Apple believes that state-sponsored attackers are trying to target you. An attempt is being made to remotely compromise or hack the iPhone associated with your Apple ID.
If your device is compromised by a state-sponsored attack, they can access your sensitive data, communications, and camera and microphone. It is possible that this is a false alarm, but take this warning seriously.” However, the government had rejected the allegations of phone hacking.
Threat notification to inform and assist
According to Apple’s website, threat notifications are designed to inform and assist users who may have been targeted by state-sponsored attackers. This notification also provides information on what steps can be taken to secure the phone, including 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 it normally does. Certain apps, websites, and features are limited to prevent attacks.
How does spyware work?
- Infiltrates your device: This can happen when you visit an unsafe website, unknowingly install an unsafe app, or even open a file attachment.
- Captures your data: Once the spyware is on your device, it starts collecting data, which can be anything from your web activities to screen captures and your keystrokes.
- Provides data to a third party: Once the captured data reaches the spyware creator, he either uses it directly himself or sells it to third parties. The data may also include credit card and bank login details.
Follow these three steps for security…
- Update your devices to the latest software as it includes the latest security fixes.
- Protect devices with a passcode. Use two-factor authentication and a strong password for your Apple ID.
- Install apps only from the app store. Do not click on links or attachments from unknown senders. Use strong and unique passwords.
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