Apple now sends iPhone alerts when users are targeted by Pegasus

Apple has sent a new round of threat notifications to users it estimates were individually targeted by mercenary spyware.

Apple is warning users that they may have been targeted by mercenary spyware. The company sends threat notifications to affected users; these alerts now appear directly on the iPhone's lock screen and in the Settings section. This latest round of notifications was sent this week to users in 110 countries, informing them of the detected mercenary spyware attack and outlining security measures.

In an updated support note published on August 13, Apple states that its threat notifications are designed to inform and assist individuals who may have been individually targeted for mercenary spyware attacks. The company says that mercenary spyware attacks are more advanced, than regular cybercrime. These attacks can cost millions of dollars. They focus on a small number of people. Apple also tells users that the majority of people will never be the target of these kinds of attacks.

Attacks involving spyware similar to Pegasus are highly targeted

Apple explains that, historically, these attacks have been linked- through public reports and investigations—to state actors and private companies developing spyware on their behalf. The company cites Pegasus as an example. Individuals affected by these attacks include journalists, activists, politicians, and diplomats. However, Apple clarifies that it does not link individual threat notifications to any specific attacker or region.

How Apple identifies mercenary spyware

Apple states that it uses its own threat intelligence and investigations to detect signs that an iPhone may have been targeted by mercenary spyware. The company refers to these notifications as "high-confidence alerts," though it acknowledges that it cannot be absolutely certain in every case.

Apple does not tell us what they look for before they send an alert. Apple says that if they tell us what they look for then the people who make spyware will figure out ways to avoid getting caught by Apple. Apple notes that it has been sending these alerts several times a year since 2021 and has notified users in over 150 countries.

The warning now appears directly on the iPhone

Although Apple has been sending these notifications for years, the latest round includes a new feature: the company now sends the warning directly to the iPhone's lock screen, and the alert also appears in the Settings section. Apple says the goal behind the change is simple — make sure the warning actually gets noticed, so people can quickly find out what to do . Alongside that, Apple also sends an email to whatever address is tied to your Apple account, and once you log in, you'll see a notice sitting right at the top of your account page too.

The notification informs the user that Apple has detected a "mercenary spyware attack targeting your iPhone" and explains the measures that can be taken to protect data and the device. Apple recommends enabling Lockdown Mode and seeking expert help if necessary.

Apple warns fake spyware alerts

Apple also says that users should be careful scams that look like these warnings. A real message from Apple a threat will never ask people to click a link open a file install an app or a profile or give away their Apple account password or verification code. Apple is clear, this. Apple wants everyone to know this. Apple makes sure that people understand this. Apple reminds everyone this.

Kahekashan is a passionate technophile with a keen eye for cutting-edge gadgets, emerging technologies, and everything in the digital realm. Raised in a Defence family with strong values and a background in literature, she has consistently pursued excellence in every endeavour. Her last full-time assignment involved content writing with the Indian School of Business.