Apple sends notifications to devices targeted by spyware

Apple has reportedly sent notifications to users of its devices warning that they have been targeted by spyware which silently steals data and other important information through their gadgets.

The notification is part of Apple’s service that periodically informs users whether their phones, tablets or computers have detected spyware on connected devices.

Engadget reported on Friday (14/8) that a senior researcher from the University of Toronto’s Citizen Lab, John Scott-Railton, recently revealed that if such notifications are indeed received by Apple device users, they should take them seriously.

According to a TechCrunch report up to Friday (14/8), Apple has sent these notifications to users of its devices in more than 150 countries.

Apple explains on its support page that spyware is software capable of spying on targets and stealing information and important data from the target’s device. Typically, this data is sold by the developing company to state or government actors.

Spyware targets usually include influential individuals such as journalists, activists, politicians, and diplomats.

With such difficult targets, spyware attacks are hard to detect, cost millions of dollars, and are difficult for targets to avoid.

One example of spyware that has been exposed to the public and proven to have spied on many important targets is Pegasus, created by an Israeli company. Its existence was revealed in 2021 through an international investigative journalism initiative known as the Pegasus Project.

The company said it cannot disclose how it determines who has been attacked because malicious actors might use that information to avoid detection in the future.

Just because someone receives a notification does not mean their data has been hacked, but it does mean Apple detected activity on their device consistent with a spyware attack.

If a user receives a notification about spyware, Apple advises the recipient to enable Lockdown Mode to activate extreme protection on their device.

That mode blocks most message attachments, FaceTime calls, invitations to Apple services, and shared photo albums.

The company also recommends seeking expert assistance and mentions the non-profit organisation Access Now, which provides the Digital Security Helpline emergency rapid response service.