Apple warns Indian iPhone users of possible Pegasus-like ‘spyware attack’

Apple has warned some iPhone users in India that their device could become a likely target of a Pegasus-like “mercenary spyware attack.” The spyware could take control of their device, the company said. This is the second such notification it has sent to users in India and 98 other countries around the world. Since 2021, Apple has sent such notifications to users in more than 150 countries.

Apple stated: “Mercenary spyware attacks, such as those carried out with NSO Group’s Pegasus, are extremely rare and far more sophisticated than typical cybercriminal activity or consumer malware.”

Read more: Mahindra & Mahindra explains why the XUV700 price was reduced: ‘Part of the plans’

Apple also informed affected iPhone users that the attacks “may cost millions of dollars and target a very small number of people individually, but the attacks are ongoing and occurring worldwide.”

In April this year, India’s Computer Emergency Response Team (Cert-In) highlighted several vulnerabilities in Apple’s operating system for iPhone and iPad. The government cybersecurity agency said that vulnerabilities in Safari web browser versions prior to iOS version 17.4.1 could allow attackers to “execute arbitrary code” on targeted devices.

In October 2023, Apple sent a similar notification to users in several countries, including India, warning them about a “state-sponsored” attack on their devices.