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Apple has issued a security warning to millions of iPhone users in 92 countries, saying their devices are being targeted by mercenary spyware. The alert suggests that the attack may be targeting users based on their identity or activity.
Apple has been notifying users for years about threats targeting journalists and politicians in more than 150 countries since 2021. Some users have discovered the intrusive Pegasus spyware, created by Israeli spyware maker NSO Group, on their iPhones. However, the company has not disclosed official figures regarding this matter.
Apple asks users to take it seriously!
As reported by the Economic Times, Apple said in a warning email that the attack was likely targeted by specific characteristics and actions, and urged users to take it seriously.
Targeted spyware attacks can remotely access sensitive data, communications, and even cameras and microphones, according to Apple’s threat notification email.
India is also one of the countries affected by the issue, although the Indian government opposes the security alert by Apple, and whether US iPhone owners were targeted, as Apple has not released further details. It is unclear whether
Apple has sent multiple warnings to more than 150 countries since 2021, and previously sued Israeli company NSO Group for aiding adversaries in targeting iPhone users. Additionally, Apple is releasing iOS updates to address potential spyware attacks as an urgent security measure, especially if the flaw in his iPhone has already been exploited.
If you receive this notification, remember that Apple has a dedicated page providing guidance on changing your password and enabling two-factor authentication for added security.
What is a mercenary attack?
Mercenary attacks are targeted spyware attacks, a unique type of cyberattack that targets specific individuals based on their occupation, social status, or access to sensitive information. They use sophisticated spyware like Pegasus to infiltrate devices and collect vast amounts of data.
These attacks are expensive and require significant resources to execute. Mercenary attacks are rare and complex cyber crimes that cost millions of dollars and target a small number of people around the world, the company said in an email.
Comparitech Security Specialist Brian Higgins commented on this issue. “There have been enough regular activations of Pegasus in recent years that one would expect those who are regularly targeted to have some sort of response or mitigation plan in place.“ He said.
“In most cases, journalists and activists in dangerous jurisdictions are targeted because they are vulnerable to intervention, prosecution, and attack by regimes they dissent. And the data collected in these breaches can facilitate all of these activities.“ My brain warned me.
“Considering how individual targets have been affected in previous incidents, it’s a pretty disappointing sales move for Apple to direct you to a third-party, non-profit security helpline. As the owner of a vulnerable platform, you would think they would offer to help themselves.“
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