Apple is set to issue a warning to iPhone users in 92 countries, including India, that they could be victims of a mercenary spyware attack.
“This attack is likely targeting you specifically because of who you are or what you do. Although it’s never possible to achieve absolute certainty when detecting such attacks, Apple has high confidence in this warning — please take it seriously," states a threat notification mail sent to some users, as cited by The Economic Times.
In its support page, the Cupertino giant has published tips for iPhone users. “Apple threat notifications are designed to inform and assist users who may have been individually targeted by mercenary spyware attacks, likely because of who they are or what they do,” it stated.
What is mercenary spyware?
Mercenary spyware which are designed to remotely infiltrate and compromise smartphones and other devices without knowledge or consent of the users. These surveillance tools could be used for monitor movements and communications, steal private data etc.
In some cases, governments, intelligence agencies and law enforcement bodies have reportedly bought mercenary spyware wherein political opponents and activists are often targeted.
Examples of mercenary spyware
Companies producing mercenary spyware include the NSO Group, FinFisher and Hacking Team. NSO Group's flagship spyware Pegasus, which has been bought by various governments, help infiltrate devices remotely and access calls, emails, messages and other files.
Finfisher's products like FinSpy can capture keystrokes and access data besides activating microphones and cameras without permission. Hacking Team's Galileo aka Remote Control System (RCS) also can capture keystrokes and record video calls besides accessing camera and microphone.
