Apple warns iPhone users in 110 countries of spyware threat

Apple has sent spyware alerts to iPhone, iPad and Mac users in 110 countries in recent days, the company told TechCrunch. The notifications were addressed to users believed to be targeted by advanced surveillance software, Apple said, adding that the number of countries where users have been warned since 2021 has now passed 150. Affected users see a message on their device lock screen stating that Apple has detected a spyware attack and that they should take steps to protect their data. The same warning is delivered by email and reappears when the user signs in to their Apple account. Apple urged users not to dismiss the alert, noting that while it does not necessarily mean a successful attack has occurred, it indicates the device has been targeted. The company recommended enabling its "Lockdown Mode" feature and provided information on organizations users can contact for assistance. Apple said it has not recorded a case in which spyware successfully compromised a device while Lockdown Mode was active.