Apple Warns Users in 110 Countries of Mercenary Spyware Attacks

Apple has sent a new wave of security notifications to users in 110 countries, warning that their devices may have been targeted by sophisticated mercenary spyware. The alerts, issued on Thursday, August 13, 2026, are part of the company's ongoing effort to inform individuals who could be victims of surveillance attacks often linked to government agencies.

The notifications are delivered directly to users' iPhones, iPads, or Macs through a push alert on the lock screen and within the Settings app. Apple also sends an email to the address associated with the user's Apple Account and displays a banner when they sign in to account.apple.com. The message states that Apple has detected a mercenary spyware attack and outlines steps the user can take to protect their data and device.

Apple emphasized that these attacks are distinct from common cybercrime. They are extremely expensive, highly sophisticated, and designed to target a small number of specific individuals, such as journalists, activists, politicians, and diplomats. The spyware is typically developed by private surveillance companies and can be deployed by government entities. While the company does not identify the...