www.wired.com Mercenary Spyware Targets German Lawmakers' iPhones, BSI Issues Alerts
Article Content
- •German lawmakers received alerts about potential spyware targeting their iPhones.
- •The BSI advises assuming devices may be compromised due to the nature of the alerts.
- •Apple's notifications are part of a wider wave affecting users in 99 countries.
Germany's Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) has warned members of the Bundestag and federal government that their iPhones may have been compromised by mercenary spyware. The alerts began on October 29, 2026, following notifications from Apple indicating targeted attacks. Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger confirmed the situation, advising affected individuals to assume their devices may be compromised. The specific attackers or methods remain unknown, but the BSI emphasized the severity of the threat, as such spyware can access messages, calls, and even activate microphones and cameras. Apple has issued similar warnings to users in 99 countries, indicating a broader campaign. No confirmation of successful breaches has been provided, and the BSI is still gathering information.
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