Apple warns iPhone users about the mercenary spyware threat

Apple published an advisory that warns iPhone users in 92 different countries about the potential attacks of sophisticated malware called mercenary spyware. The company shared a sample notification of the new malware, indicating the seriousness of the situation and advising recipients to take immediate action.

Based on reports, the notification informs users that the new threat targets iPhones using a new type of spyware with sophisticated capabilities. Moreover, the advisory revealed that this malicious software aims to compromise the devices remotely.

To safeguard against such attacks, Apple suggests several methods, including activating lockdown mode, updating all Apple products to the latest software version, and seeking assistance from organisations like the Digital Security Helpline.

 

The mercenary spyware that targets iPhone users is similar to the previously discovered Pegasus kit.

 

Apple’s mercenary spyware notification mentions the NSO Group’s Pegasus kit as an example of the spyware used in other cybercriminal activities. These attacks are highly sophisticated and well-funded, often targeting a select group of journalists, activists, politicians, and diplomats.

In addition, the company has updated its support page to reflect the ongoing threat of mercenary spyware attacks, replacing the term “state-sponsored” with “mercenary spyware.” The company emphasises that these attacks are global and ongoing, sometimes involving private companies that develop spying tools for state-sponsored actors.

Despite the challenges posed by these attacks, Apple reassures users that it is actively working to monitor and alert users to potential threats. However, detecting and preventing newly discovered spyware attacks is particularly difficult due to their high cost, sophistication, and short lifespan.

Apple has issued threat notifications since 2021 and alerted users in over 150 countries. However, Apple declined to provide further details on the scope of the targeting of this new campaign, indicating that the company could have yet to uncover substantial information about the malicious tool.

However, Apple acknowledges the advanced nature of mercenary spyware attacks, describing them as among the most sophisticated digital threats today. Due to their extreme cost, sophistication, and global reach, Apple does not attribute these attacks to specific attackers or geographical regions.

iPhone users should be knowledgeable about this malicious tool and ensure that their devices are up to date with the latest spyware to avoid getting infected by the new spyware.