April 11, 2024 at 02:30PM
Apple updated its spyware threat notification system to aid users targeted by mercenary spyware attacks, having alerted individuals in over 150 countries. The attacks typically target high-profile individuals such as journalists, activists, and politicians. Apple detects and notifies users of spyware within two days, attributing the threat to the NSO Group. The company advises users to seek assistance if they receive a notification and provides a verification process.
From the meeting notes, it is clear that Apple has updated its spyware threat notification system to identify and assist users targeted by mercenary spyware attacks. The company has already notified users in over 150 countries about being targeted. The targets of these attacks are individuals such as journalists, activists, politicians, and others who are at a higher risk. Once spyware is detected, Apple notifies the user within two days but does not provide threat actor attribution. Apple has specifically pointed fingers at the NSO Group as a developer of the mercenary spyware Pegasus used in these attacks, and recommends that individuals seek help from either Apple or a third party if they receive a threat notification. It is important to note that Apple’s notifications will not ask the user to click on any link or install an application, and can be verified by signing into applied.apple.com where the notification will be at the top of the page.