Apple alerts iPhone users in 98 countries to mercenary spyware attacks

Apple has issued a warning to iPhone users in 98 countries about potential spyware attacks, marking the second alert campaign this year. The company detected mercenary spyware targeting specific individuals, emphasizing the seriousness of the threat. The attackers' identities and specific countries were not disclosed. Apple has been sending such notifications globally since 2021, with India being among the countries affected. The company highlighted the sensitive nature of its threat detection methods and reframed the incidents as "mercenary spyware attacks" instead of "state-sponsored" attacks. Apple relies on internal intelligence to detect these threats and urged users to take the warnings seriously. The warning did not provide details to prevent aiding attackers in evading detection. Amnesty International previously found the Pegasus spyware on iPhones belonging to Indian journalists. Apple's proactive approach aims to protect users from sophisticated spyware attacks, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in the face of evolving cybersecurity threats.