Apple Issues Spyware Threat Alert to iPhone Users in 98 Countries

Apple has issued threat notifications to iPhone users in 98 countries, warning of a potential spyware attack. This warning followed a similar notification sent to users in 92 countries in April and turned into the company's second alert campaign in less than six months.

The latest round of warnings  omits specific details regarding the identities of the attackers or countries affected. The alerts inform users of potential mercenary spyware attacks aimed at compromising iPhones associated with their Apple IDs.

"This attack is likely targeting you specifically because of who you are or what you do," reads Apple’s warning sent to affected customers. 

In October, Apple notified journalists and politicians in India following Amnesty International's found Pegasus, a potent spyware tool developed by Israeli firm NSO Group, on the iPhones of prominent Indian figures.

In its communications, Apple has refrained from divulging specifics of its threat detection methods, citing concerns that detailed disclosures could potentially aid malicious actors in evading future detection measures. The company has also adjusted its terminology, opting to label these incidents as "mercenary spyware attacks" instead of the previously used term "state-sponsored" attacks.

“Although our investigations can never achieve absolute certainty, Apple threat notifications are high-confidence alerts that a user has been individually targeted by a mercenary spyware attack and should be taken very seriously,” Apple added.