Apple has sent out a new batch of notifications to customers that may have been targeted with spyware capable of hacking into their devices. 

Such notifications alert customers that their iPhones, iPads, or Macs might have been compromised with spyware typically used by governments. Apple told TechCrunch that it sent out the notifications on Thursday to users targeted in 110 countries. The tech giant says to date it has notified customers in over 150 countries.

In a new support article on its website, Apple tells how threat notifications are delivered:

  • An Apple Threat Notification alert appears on the user’s iPhone, on the Lock Screen and in Settings. 
  • Apple sends an email notification to email addresses associated with the user’s Apple Account.
  • A threat notification banner is displayed at the top of the user’s Apple Account page after they sign in to account.apple.com.

From the support document: Apple threat notifications provide additional information and recommend steps that users can take to help protect their accounts and devices, including enabling Lockdown Mode. We strongly suggest notified users enlist expert help, such as the rapid-response emergency security assistance provided by the Digital Security Helpline at the nonprofit Access Now. Recipients of Apple threat notifications can contact the Digital Security Helpline 24 hours a day, seven days a week through their website. Outside organizations don’t have any information about what caused Apple to send a threat notification, but they can assist targeted users with tailored security advice.

Apple threat notifications never ask the user to click any links, open files, install apps or profiles, or provide an Apple Account password or verification code by email or on the phone. To verify that an Apple threat notification is genuine, sign in to account.apple.com. If Apple sent a threat notification, it’s clearly visible at the top of the page after sign-in.

Although the vast majority of users will never be targeted by mercenary spyware, all users can continue to protect themselves from general cybersecurity threats by following best practices for security:

  • Update your devices to the latest software, which includes the latest security fixes.
  • Protect your devices with a passcode, Touch ID, or Face ID.
  • Use two-factor authentication and a strong password for your Apple Account.
  • Turn on Stolen Device Protection.
  • Install apps from the App Store.
  • Use strong and unique passwords online — and passkeys where available.
  • Don’t open links or attachments from unknown senders.

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Article provided with permission from AppleWorld.Today