In a startling move, Apple has issued spyware alerts to iPhone users across 100 countries, warning them of targeted surveillance attacks. While Apple has not explicitly named the spyware, the message directly references Pegasus, the notorious mercenary spyware developed by the NSO Group. This is one of the largest warning campaigns Apple has launched to date.
A sophisticated threat targeting specific individuals
According to Apple, the warning is based on “high confidence” that users were targeted by mercenary spyware. These attacks are not random. Instead, they are directed at individuals based on who they are or what they do—such as journalists, political dissidents, lawyers, or activists. The spyware operates silently and can compromise a device without any user interaction.
Apple describes these attacks as “exceptionally rare and vastly more sophisticated than consumer malware”. Pegasus, for instance, can infiltrate iPhones through messaging apps or malicious links, gaining complete access to the device’s microphone, camera, and personal data.
Apple’s response and user guidance
The company recommends that affected users immediately enable Lockdown Mode, which offers the highest level of protection against advanced cyber threats. Users are also urged to update their devices to the latest iOS version, and to keep all messaging and cloud applications fully updated.
Apple advises caution against unsolicited links, especially those that try to provoke an emotional reaction. The company highlights that even if no link is clicked, spyware can still compromise the device.