Apple announced new spyware attack warning to iPhone users across 98 countries. All iPhone users must be informed with this mercenary spyware attack that may be used on their phones for cyber threat purposes. According to a support document on Apple’s website, the company has been regularly issuing these notifications since 2021, resonating with users in over 150 countries.

The notification sent to affected customers stated: “Apple detected that you are being targeted by a mercenary spyware attack that is trying to remotely compromise the iPhone associated with your Apple ID.” Apple emphasized the targeted nature of these attacks, noting, “This attack is likely targeting you specifically because of who you are or what you do.” Despite the inherent uncertainty in preventing nation-state attacks, Apple has stressed the critical importance of heeding such messages.

In recent reports, India is on top among those who have received Apple’s latest threat notifications. This follows a similar incident in October when Apple sent warnings to several journalists and politicians in the country. Subsequently, Amnesty International, a prominent human rights advocacy group, reported discovering the presence of Pegasus on the iPhones of notable Indian journalists.

In its communication with affected users, Apple emphasized the sensitive nature of its threat identification methods. The company cautioned that divulging additional details could potentially aid attackers in evading future detection, underlining the delicate balance between informing users and maintaining effective security measures.

It’s worth nothing that Apple has made a significant change in its terminology from last year, now opting to describe these incidents as “mercenary spyware attacks” rather than the previously used term “state-sponsored” attacks. This shift in language may reflect evolving understanding or classification of these security threats. Moreover, Apple has stated that it relies exclusively on “internal threat-intelligence information and investigations to detect such attacks,” highlighting the company’s commitment to user privacy and security.

Precautionary Measures Against Spyware Attack

Regardless of whether iPhone users have received a notification, all iPhone users are advised to take several precautionary measures against spyware attack as below:

1. Ensure devices are running the latest software updates.
2. Protect devices with a strong passcode.
3. Implement multi-factor authentication and use a robust password for Apple ID.
4. Only install applications from the official App Store.
5. Utilize a reputable mobile security product.
6. Exercise caution when opening emails, messages, or tapping on links.

For individuals who believe they may be at higher risk of targeted mercenary spyware attacks, Apple offers an additional layer of protection through Lockdown Mode. This feature, as reported by Malwarebytes Labs, provides enhanced security by limiting certain functionalities that could potentially be exploited by spyware.

Lockdown Mode Restrictions for iPhone Users

These are the lockdown mode restrictions for iPhone users that they must follow to prevent themselves from mercenary spyware attack. These include:

• Blocking most message attachments
• Preventing incoming FaceTime calls from unfamiliar contacts
• Restricting certain web technologies and browsing features
• Excluding location data from shared photos and removing Shared Albums
• Blocking wired connections when the device is locked
• Preventing auto-joining of non-secure WiFi networks
• Blocking incoming invitations from new contacts
• Restricting installation of configuration profiles often used for work or school

How to Activate Lockdown Mode on iPhone?

To activate Lockdown Mode on iPhone or iPad, users should follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to Privacy & Security.
3. Scroll down and select Lockdown Mode.
4. Tap “Turn On Lockdown Mode.”
5. Review the feature’s implications and confirm by tapping “Turn On Lockdown Mode.”
6. Select “Turn On & Restart,” then enter the device passcode.

Spyware attack is harmful because it allows cyber attackers complete access to your iPhone including encrypted messages on WhatsApp and Signal as well as your audio and video. Reason, it is delivered in zero click-attacks. Cybercriminals send an image over iMessage so that spyware can be difficult to mitigate. By implementing these right cybersecurity measures and staying updated about potential cyber threats, iPhone users can quickly and easily can ensure a peace of mind against this sophisticated spyware attack. For quick network and cybersecurity assistance, contact us.