Nowadays, a new and dangerous cyber threat is looming over iPhone users, which is known as 'Mercenary Spyware Attack'. Apple has issued a warning to iPhone users in about 150 countries around the world about this possible attack. This spyware can prove to be more dangerous than the normal cyber attacks seen so far. Although the complete information on the pattern of this attack has not been revealed yet, experts believe that scammers keep changing their methods over time, making this cyber attack even more difficult.
How does Apple give an alert?
Apple alerts its users in many ways in case of such a potential attack. Users are sent notifications through SMS, email and iMessage. Apart from this, users are advised to log in to their Apple account at account.apple.com, so that they can get any security alert on time.
Users who receive this alert are usually contacted by Apple within 24 hours or a maximum of seven days to provide them with the necessary information and instructions about this cyber threat.
What is 'Mercenary Spyware Attack'?
Mercenary spyware is an advanced and dangerous software specifically designed to spy on a person. It is usually used by certain hackers or government-backed groups. Its purpose is to secretly access a person's personal information, such as call records, messages, photos, location, and even their online activities.
Apple says that such attacks are highly targeted and are carried out by focusing on specific individuals rather than the general public. Journalists, leaders, lawyers, and social workers are often the primary targets of such attacks.
How does this cyber attack happen?
This spyware is usually sent through a suspicious link, email, or message. As soon as you click on that link, this spyware gets installed on your iPhone without your knowledge and then starts stealing your personal information. This can include everything from login credentials to your location and even your files.
How to protect yourself?
1. Always keep your iPhone updated:
By installing the latest version of iOS, you can take advantage of the latest security features released by Apple. Apple releases security updates from time to time, so it is very important to keep the phone updated.
2. Beware of suspicious links or messages:
Avoid clicking on any link or message from an unknown number. If any message looks suspicious, delete it immediately.
3. Use two-factor authentication (2FA):
This gives an additional security layer, which can protect your account from unwanted access.
4. Download apps only from trusted sources:
Download any app only from the Apple App Store. Downloading apps from a third-party website or a suspicious link can be dangerous.
5. Do not ignore any warning messages from Apple:
If you receive a security notification from Apple, take it seriously and check your security settings immediately.
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