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Apple Warns iPhone Users in 100 Countries of Targeted Spyware Attacks

The company advises recipients to enable Lockdown Mode and update to iOS 18.4.1 to counter mercenary spyware threats.

A pedestrian uses a smartphone while walking past an Apple store and logo in Hong Kong. (Image: Sebastian Ng/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Apple has now come forward to reveal intricacies about how it sends threat notifications to its users.
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Overview

  • Apple has issued spyware attack notifications to users in 100 countries, citing high confidence in its detection of targeted threats.
  • Two confirmed recipients, Italian journalist Ciro Pellegrino and Dutch activist Eva Vlaardingerbroek, shared their experiences publicly.
  • The attacks are described as highly selective, targeting individuals based on their identity or activities, and often involve advanced spyware like NSO Group's Pegasus.
  • Apple recommends enabling Lockdown Mode, updating to iOS 18.4.1, and consulting security nonprofits for tailored assistance.
  • Specific details of the spyware campaigns remain undisclosed to prevent attackers from adapting their methods.