Are you aware that Apple has been employing a system for years to provide users with ‘threat notifications’ regarding potential spyware attacks? Here’s what that entails and the latest insights on the advice Apple offers users whose devices may be compromised.
High-profile individuals are more likely to be spyware targets than the average Apple user
Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai contributes to TechCrunch:
Over the past few years, Apple has been notifying individuals believed to be targets of government spyware, warning them about possible hacks and recommending they seek assistance. Importantly, Apple directs these individuals not to their security engineers, but to the nonprofit Access Now, which provides a digital helpline for individuals in the civil sector who think they may be victims of government spyware.
We initially covered these ‘threat notifications’ back in 2021 when Apple released a support document on the subject. This document, updated last on October 24, 2024, can be accessed here.
The document outlines the ways you will be informed if you are suspected to be a victim of spyware:
- A Threat Notification will appear at the top of the page once you log into account.apple.com.
- Apple will send an email and iMessage alert to the addresses and phone numbers linked to your Apple Account.
The reassuring aspect is that most users are unlikely to receive a threat notification, as the threats addressed tend to target high-profile individuals. As Apple states, those who are “specifically targeted by mercenary spyware attacks, likely due to their identity or activities.”
Next steps after receiving a threat notification
According to Apple’s support document, if you receive a threat notification, you should:
We highly recommend obtaining professional assistance, such as the immediate security support provided by the Digital Security Helpline from Access Now. Individuals who receive Apple threat notifications can reach out to the Digital Security Helpline 24/7 via their website. While external organizations lack information about the root cause of the threat notification, they can provide targeted users with personalized security advice.
If you find yourself as a suspected spyware target, Apple will direct you to the Access Now helpline for assistance rather than providing direct help.
Apple emphasizes: “External organizations do not possess any information about why Apple has issued a threat notification, but they can offer tailored security guidance to affected individuals.”
Numerous cybersecurity professionals consulted by TechCrunch have commended Apple’s initiatives in this regard, remarking that the rollout of threat notifications has been transformative.
Apple also offers these fundamental security tips for all users, aimed at minimizing the likelihood of receiving a threat notification at all. Users are advised to:
- Keep devices updated with the latest software, as these updates incorporate the newest security improvements.
- Secure devices with a passcode.
- Implement two-factor authentication and a robust password for your Apple Account.
- Acquire apps solely from the App Store.
- Utilize strong, unique passwords across the web.
- Avoid clicking links or attachments from unknown sources.
Have you ever gotten an Apple threat notification? Were you aware of them prior to now? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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