Bleeping Computer reports that Apple has begun sending out a new wave of threat notifications to iPhone users, alerting them to potential mercenary spyware attacks targeting their devices. These alerts, sent on August 13, are not entirely new, as Apple has been issuing them since 2021 when it detects highly targeted attacks.Apple's threat notifications are triggered by the detection of mercenary spyware, which is described as sophisticated, expensive, and aimed at a small number of individuals, often journalists, activists, politicians, and diplomats. While Apple does not identify the specific spyware or the attackers, it cites NSO Group's Pegasus as an example historically associated with such attacks. The company emphasizes that these notifications are high-confidence alerts, meaning Apple has strong reason to believe a user has been individually targeted.If a notification is received, Apple advises users to take it seriously, enable Lockdown Mode, and consult a cybersecurity expert. Users can verify the authenticity of alerts by checking account.apple.com, as Apple will not ask for links, files, apps, profiles, passwords, or verification codes. The company does not attribute specific alerts to any government or region to prevent attackers from adapting their methods.Source: Bleeping Computer
