Apple and Google Raise Alerts on Cyber Threats

In a recent announcement, Apple and Google have informed users worldwide about new cyber threat notifications aimed at safeguarding against surveillance threats. This initiative showcases their ongoing commitment to user security.

Both tech giants, Apple and Alphabet-owned Google, routinely caution users when they suspect state-sponsored hackers may have targeted them.

Apple revealed that the alerts were disseminated on December 2, although specifics regarding the hacking incidents were sparse. The company didn’t provide details about how many users were affected or identify the alleged perpetrators. They did mention, however, that they have alerted users in over 150 countries to date.

Following this, Google shared on December 3 that it had warned users targeted by Intellexa spyware, impacting “several hundred accounts” across various nations, including regions like Pakistan, Kazakhstan, and Egypt.

In its statement, Google emphasized that Intellexa, a cyber intelligence firm under U.S. sanctions, has been “evading restrictions and thriving.”

The executives linked to Intellexa did not immediately respond to requests for comments.

Past warning campaigns have often made headlines and led to inquiries from government entities, such as the European Union, where senior officials have been targets of spyware attacks.

John Scott-Railton, a researcher at Citizen Lab, a Canadian digital watchdog, noted that these threat notifications can impose repercussions on cyber spies by notifying potential victims. He indicated that such alerts often serve as an initial step leading to investigations and further actions to hold those abusing spyware accountable.