Italian journalist Ciro Pellegrino and Dutch activist Eva Vlaardingerbroek confirmed receiving Apple's alert.
The company believes users were targeted based on who they are or what they do.
Apple has previously issued similar alerts to affected users.
Several iPhone users have received warning notifications from Apple this week about potential targeted spyware attacks. According to the company, the notifications were sent to users in 100 different countries. The recipients of the threat messages are informed that a “mercenary spyware attack” is attempting to remotely compromise their devices. This is the second time that Apple has sent a threat notification to iPhone users. A similar alert was sent to users in 92 countries in April. Here’s why Apple sent these notifications and how to stay protected.
SurveyAccording to TechCrunch, two individuals, Italian journalist Ciro Pellegrino and Dutch political activist Eva Vlaardingerbroek, have publicly confirmed receiving these alerts. Pellegrino, who works for the Italian online news outlet Fanpage, said Apple sent him an email and text message warning about a spyware attack. The message also specifies that it was sent to affected users in 100 countries.
Another recipient, Vlaardingerbroek, shared a screenshot of Apple’s warning on X (formerly Twitter) about “a targeted mercenary spyware attack” found on her device.
Previously, Apple sent similar warning notifications to iPhone users when it detected a spyware threat. According to Apple, such attacks typically target a small number of individuals, including journalists, activists, politicians, and diplomats. They stated that these threat notifications have been sent several times per year since 2021. As of now, users in 150 countries have received these notifications. However, the source of these attacks has not been publicly disclosed.
Also read: OnePlus 13s India launch soon: Expected price, features, specifications and more
How to stay protected from such spyware attacks?
Apple has been advising users to keep their iPhones up to date with the latest software updates. Other precautions that can be taken include creating a device passcode, using two-factor authentication and a strong password for your Apple account, and avoiding clicking on links or attachments from unknown sources.
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Himani Jha
Himani Jha is a tech news writer at Digit. Passionate about smartphones and consumer technology, she has contributed to leading publications such as Times Network, Gadgets 360, and Hindustan Times Tech for the past five years. When not immersed in gadgets, she enjoys exploring the vibrant culinary scene, discovering new cafes and restaurants, and indulging in her love for fine literature and timeless music. View Full Profile
