Published on November 4, 2023, 2:39 pm
Image source: Fox News
TLDR: iPhone users in Armenia have received notifications from Apple warning them about potential targeted attacks by "state-sponsored attackers." These alerts, which were sent on the same day similar notifications were sent to Indian politicians, suggest that the devices may have been compromised with NSO Pegasus spyware. The report claims that Azerbaijan, through the Israeli company NSO Group, may be responsible for installing the spyware. While not everyone has received these alerts, it is clear that governments' use of hacking tools like Pegasus is increasingly prevalent, prompting Apple's efforts to protect its users. iPhone users in Armenia should remain cautious and follow the recommended security measures outlined by Apple.
Selected iPhone users in Armenia have recently received notifications from Apple warning them about possible targeted attacks by “state-sponsored attackers.” These alerts were sent on October 30, 2023, the same day similar notifications were sent to specific Indian politicians. While the alerts do not provide specific details on who may be behind the attacks or whether NSO Pegasus spyware is being used, they emphasize the need for caution and outline recommended steps for users to take.
According to local publication Media.am, these alerts suggest that the infected iPhones in Armenia may have been compromised with Pegasus spyware. The report claims that the Israeli company NSO Group, acting on behalf of the Azerbaijani government, is likely responsible for installing this spyware. Additionally, Media.am’s research suggests that Azerbaijan has targeted around a thousand individuals within its borders using Pegasus. The number of individuals targeted in Armenia is expected to be higher, possibly in the thousands.
Media.am notes that not everyone has reported receiving these alerts; however, reliable sources have confirmed that many individuals within their departments have received them. It is important to highlight that Apple’s introduction of threat alert systems in 2021 reflects the prevalence of governments using tools like Pegasus.
It is worth mentioning that NSO Pegasus has previously been employed by the Azerbaijan government during its conflict with Armenia. The use of such hacking tools by governments has become increasingly common, prompting Apple’s proactive efforts to protect iPhone users.
In conclusion, iPhone users in Armenia should remain vigilant and follow Apple’s recommended security measures outlined in these notifications. While it is challenging to determine an accurate estimate of those targeted by Pegasus, it is clear that this issue requires attention and precautions from affected individuals and authorities alike.
Original article posted by Fox News
