Apple Warns iPhone Users in Over 100 Countries of Targeted Spyware Attacks
Apple has issued urgent warnings to iPhone users in more than 100 countries, alerting them to possible spyware attacks aimed at compromising their devices. According to the company, affected users received notifications via iMessage and email, informing them that they may have been targeted due to their profession or personal activities.
One of the recipients, Ciro Pellegrino, an Italian journalist with Fanpage, shared that he received the message from Apple on Tuesday. In the alert, Apple stated that he had been specifically targeted — and that he was not alone.
The message reportedly read:
“This warning is being sent today to users who may have been targeted in 100 countries.”
Similarly, Eva Vlaardingerbroek, a Dutch right-wing political commentator, revealed on platform X (formerly Twitter) that she received the same alert. Apple’s message to her reportedly said:
“A targeted mercenary spyware attack against your iPhone has been detected… This attack is likely based on who you are or what you do.”
Apple’s use of the term “mercenary spyware” typically refers to tools developed by private companies and sold to governments or organizations for surveillance purposes — similar to known threats like Pegasus spyware.
This latest wave of warnings reflects Apple’s ongoing effort to identify and notify victims of state-sponsored or highly sophisticated cyber attacks, especially those involving spyware targeting journalists, activists, and public figures.
Apple Urges Caution, Recommends Lockdown Mode Amid Ongoing Spyware Threats
While Apple has not yet disclosed specific details about the origin or technical nature of the recent spyware attacks, it is advising users to take immediate security precautions. The company recommends that affected individuals enable Lockdown Mode, update their devices to the latest version, iOS 18.4.1, and avoid opening unknown links or files.
Apple also emphasized that it never requests account information or passwords via email or phone calls, warning users to be cautious of any such attempts posing as official communication.
Apple began issuing these types of state-sponsored threat notifications in 2021, as part of its broader cybersecurity initiative. That same year, the company filed a lawsuit against NSO Group, the maker of the notorious Pegasus spyware.
Since launching its alert system, Apple says it has notified users in over 150 countries about similar threats, underscoring the global scale and persistence of sophisticated cyber surveillance campaigns.
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