Apple has sent out a historically large wave of security notifications to users across 110 countries, warning them that their devices are being targeted by state-sponsored mercenary spyware. Digital rights organizations and cybersecurity firms reported an unprecedented surge in requests for help, with incoming cases jumping by up to 40% compared to previous alert cycles.
The recipients include high-profile targets such as journalists and dissidents, alongside unexpected individuals like soldiers fighting in Ukraine. Experts note that the sheer scale and geographic breadth of these alerts suggest that covert spyware campaigns are far more widespread than commonly assumed, aided by Apple’s updated notification system that reaches users directly on their lock screens.
- Apple targets users in 110 countries with new spyware warnings.
- Support groups report a 30% to 40% spike in victims seeking help.
- Targets include journalists, activists, and military personnel.
- Apple’s updated lock-screen alerts make warnings harder to miss.
Sources:
