Apple has started sending security alerts to users in 110 countries reporting possible cyberattacks. The data was provided to the specialized newspaper Techcrunch. The new feature is that alarms now appear directly on the lock screen of iPhones, as well as being sent via email and messages. The company’s goal is to promptly warn people who may be victims of sophisticated spy programs, called “mercenary spyware”.
Apple, attacks with “mercenary spyware”
Apple has not released the list of countries involved and has not provided details on who is conducting the attacks; a choice motivated by the desire not to provide useful information to those who develop these malicious software so that they can circumvent the detections. This type of threat does not affect ordinary people, but targets specific profiles based on their role, “often journalists, activists, politicians and diplomats”, we read in a note from the technological giant, “attacks with spyware for commercial purposes are continuous and widespread globally”.
What it means to receive the Apple warning
Just because a user received the notification doesn’t mean their data has already been compromised, but it does indicate that Apple has detected activity on their device consistent with a spyware attack. To protect your data, the company suggests immediately activating the isolation mode (lockdown mode) on your device, which intervenes by blocking attachments, link previews, incoming communications from unknown contacts and applying various restrictions to web browsing.