Apple sent a message to iPhone users in some 92 countries warning that they have been targeted by a mercenary spyware attack The warning was sent on Wednesday, April 10, at 12 pm Pacific Standard Time (PST), but Apple has not confirmed the identity of the attackers or which countries users received the notification

The message states" Apple has detected that you have been the target of a mercenary spyware attack that attempts to remotely compromise the iPhone associated with your Apple ID -xxx-" He added, "This attack is most likely specifically targeting you because of who you are or what you do While it is impossible to be absolutely reliable in detecting such attacks, Apple is highly confident in this warning

Apple has sent similar messages before, and according to an update on Apple's support page, the company has sent similar messages to over 150 countries since 2021 The page then details what mercenary spyware looks like and who is often the target of such attacks

Apple's support page makes it clear that mercenary spyware attacks usually target a smaller number of individuals As a result, most users never see such attacks and have little to worry about Public records from civil society organizations, technology companies, and journalists indicate that these complex attacks have historically been associated with state actors, often targeting journalists, activists, politicians, and diplomats

If you find that you have been contacted, Apple recommends that you "seek professional help, including rapid response emergency security assistance provided by the nonprofit Access Now's Digital Security Helpline" Apple's threat notification Recipients can contact the Digital Security Helpline 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the website

Apple also recommends that users update their devices to the latest iOS (currently iOS 174) to take advantage of the latest security patches and to introduce two-factor authentication for Apple IDs

Certainly, few people will fall victim to such targeted attacks, but it is important to protect one's devices as much as possible The public should keep their devices updated It may also be a good idea to implement a VPN to protect your online presence We have a complete list of the best VPN services to help you get started