Update iPhone: Apple Fixes Pegasus-Linked Spyware Loophole In iOS Security Update

Apple iPhone users, you're now advised to update your devices as soon as possible. The company recently fixed a critical vulnerability which was reportedly exploited to spy on users.

According to researchers from the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab, the software exploit has been in use since February and was used to deploy the contentious spyware made by Israel's NSO Group called "Pegasus".

An explosive report in July by 17 global media organisations revealed how regimes and governments all over the world were using the spyware to snoop on journalists and human rights activists.

A zero-click spyware

Apple's urgent update fixes a loophole in the iMessage software wherein hackers were able to infiltrate a user's phone without requiring any clicks. According to Citizen Lab, the vulnerability was discovered after a Saudi activist's phone was spied on. The threat was addressed by Apple as well, crediting Citizen Lab for finding the vulnerability.

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Also read: Apple Says Motorcycle Vibrations Can Damage iPhone Camera If Mounted On Handle

Even then, Ivan Krstic, head of Apple's security said in a statement that the vulnerability would remain a non-threat to a majority of its users. Krstic also explained the spyware, calling it highly sophisticated with the goal to target specific individuals.

Reuters

How Pegasus works

NSO Group maintains that its software can be used only by vetted governments who are engaging in counterterrorism activities. But multiple researchers have found that the spyware has been used in countries including India to spy on journalists and dissidents. Pegasus can be used to enable/disable the camera, microphone and even to harvest data - all without the user's knowledge.

Also read: How To Find Pegasus Spyware On Your iPhone: Step By Step Guide

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A 2019 report by Citizen Lab alleged that the same spyware was used on the mobile phone of a slain journalist from Mexico. Even Facebook-owned WhatsApp filed a lawsuit against NSO Group for allowing the hacking of 1,400 mobile devices using the messaging app.

The consequences of such spyware being used are dire. In fact, the United Nations has called for an end to use of such software until a mechanism can be put in place to bring them in line with international human rights regulations.

For the latest in the world of science and tech, don't forget to check out Indiatimes.com. And of course, if you're an iPhone user Apple says you shouldn't waste any time in installing this new iOS security update.