Apple issues spyware warning to users in 110 countries: What to do if you receive a notification?

Apple has sent a new wave of notifications to some users in 110 countries worldwide, informing them that their devices may have been the target of sophisticated spyware attacks. These notifications from the company serve as an early warning, particularly against state-sponsored or "mercenary" spyware activities.

Apple emphasizes that such notifications do not necessarily mean the device has been compromised, but that the user should take the risky situation seriously. The company states that it has sent similar threat notifications in more than 150 countries to date.

With the new notification experience, users can see a direct alert on their iPhone lock screen when a threat is detected. The notification states, "Apple detected a mercenary spyware attack targeting your iPhone. There are steps you can take right now to protect your data and device."

The warnings are not limited to the lock screen. Apple states that the same information will also be displayed via email, in the Settings section, and on other devices where the user is logged into their account. Therefore, users who receive such a notification should not ignore the message and should implement the recommended security steps.

LOCKDOWN MODE RECOMMENDATION

One of the most important steps Apple recommends to users is to enable "Lockdown Mode." This feature restricts certain device functions, reducing the attack surface and increasing the security level for high-risk users.

According to information shared by the company, there have been no observed cases to date where devices of users with Lockdown Mode enabled were hacked by spyware. For this reason, enabling this mode is highlighted as one of the strongest precautions users who receive a notification can take.

As part of general security measures, Apple reminds users that devices should be kept up to date with the latest software, strong passcodes should be used, Touch ID or Face ID should be enabled, two-factor authentication should be turned on for the Apple Account, and applications should only be downloaded from the App Store.

Users are also advised to enable Stolen Device Protection, avoid opening links and attachments from unknown senders, and exercise caution regarding suspicious emails or messages. According to experts, such notifications are also among the critical indicators in identifying broader cyberattack networks.

News Source: 12punto