Apple Sends Spyware Alerts to Users in 110 Countries: What You Should Do

Apple has issued a new round of threat alerts to users it believes may have been targeted by mercenary spyware capable of compromising iPhones, iPads, and Macs. The company confirmed to a news source that the latest notifications were sent to users across 110 countries.  

“Apple detected a mercenary spyware attack targeted at your iPhone. There are actions you can take now to protect your data and device,” reads the notification sent by Apple.

Apple said it has so far notified customers in more than 150 countries about suspected mercenary spyware attacks.

The company has also updated a support article on its website, stating that users will receive threat notifications directly on their device lock screens. Apple told the news source that the update was made to help recipients more easily access guidance on the steps they should take next.

According to Apple, these notifications “provide additional information and recommend steps that users can take to help protect their accounts and devices, including enabling Lockdown Mode.”

“We strongly suggest notified users enlist expert help, such as the rapid-response emergency security assistance provided by the Digital Security Helpline at the nonprofit Access Now. Recipients of Apple threat notifications can contact the Digital Security Helpline 24 hours a day, seven days a week through their website,” the company adds in its blog.

The company added that external organisations are not informed about the specific reason a notification was issued, but they may still be able to provide personalised security guidance to targeted users.

What to do if you receive threat notification from Apple?

·         In its blog, Apple recommends a few steps to keep your device safe after receiving the notification:

·         Update your devices to the latest software version to get the latest security fixes.

·         Protect your devices with a passcode, Touch ID or Face ID.

·         Enable two-factor authentication and use a strong password for your Apple Account.

·         Turn on Stolen Device Protection on supported iPhones.

·         Install apps only from the App Store.

·         Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts and use passkeys where available.

·         Avoid opening links or attachments from unknown senders.

Meanwhile, John Scott-Railton, a senior researcher at Citizen Lab, said individuals who believe they may be at risk from mercenary spyware should enable Lockdown Mode on their iPhones.

“As researchers we see a lot of people that get targeted with spyware. Using Lockdown Mode is one of the best things people do to become harder to hack,” Railton wrote in a post on X.