Government questions Apple’s threat alerts as CERT-In steps in with guidance and technical support for affected users
The Indian government has raised concerns after Apple issued fresh “mercenary spyware” threat alerts to several iPhone users in the country. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) sent a notice to Apple questioning the nature, source, and intent behind these alerts. These warnings informed users that their devices may have been targeted by highly sophisticated spyware attacks.
Apple representatives met with officials from MeitY and the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) to explain that the warnings were triggered by the company’s internal threat detection systems and were not linked to any government entity.
Apple Sends Spyware Alerts to Users Globally
This notice from the government followed Apple’s latest round of global cyber threat notifications. The company sent alerts to users across multiple countries, including India. Apple and Google confirmed that these warnings went out to individuals who may have been targeted by state-linked hackers or mercenary spyware groups.
Apple stated that it has issued similar warnings in more than 150 countries. The company did not disclose how many Indian users were affected or the identities of the attackers behind these attempts.
CERT-In Responds with Advisory and Voluntary Device Checks
CERT-In issued a detailed advisory encouraging users to update their Apple devices immediately with the latest security patches. The agency also invited individuals who received alerts to request voluntary device examinations for technical support.
Users who wish to participate can contact CERT-In at [email protected].
The advisory, identified as CIAD 2025 0048, confirms that Apple detected attempts to remotely compromise devices linked to the Apple IDs of affected users.
Cyber Safety Measures Recommended for iPhone Users
CERT-In has advised iPhone users to take several steps to reduce the risk of compromise.
- Install the latest iOS version, including iOS 26.1.
- Update all messaging, cloud, and essential applications
- Enable Lockdown Mode for enhanced protection
- Avoid suspicious links, prompts, or unknown communications.
These precautions help close vulnerabilities that spyware attackers commonly exploit.
Cybersecurity experts say the alerts highlight the growing danger of advanced spyware attacks. They stress that these warnings are serious indicators of cyber risk rather than routine notifications. Experts also note that mercenary spyware operations are increasing around the world, making strong cyber hygiene more important than ever.
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Previous Instances of Spyware Alerts in India
This issue is not new. In 2023, journalists and political figures in India reported receiving similar spyware alerts from Apple. The government sought clarification at the time, and Apple explained that the warnings originated from its threat detection systems. The latest alerts in 2025 signal a continued rise in global cyber espionage activity, which is pushing governments and tech companies to work together to improve user safety.
FAQs
- What does Apple’s spyware alert signify for users?
The alert indicates that Apple detected unusual activity, suggesting that a user’s device may be targeted by sophisticated spyware used by state-linked attackers or mercenary groups.
- Who should reach out to CERT-In for voluntary checks?
Any user who has received Apple’s threat notification can request a voluntary device examination by emailing CERT-In at [email protected].
- What is the role of Lockdown Mode on iPhones?
Lockdown Mode provides extreme protection against targeted cyber attacks. It limits certain device functions and blocks common exploitation methods used by spyware.
- Why has the government questioned Apple’s alerts?
MeitY asked Apple for clarity on the basis and reliability of the alerts because such warnings can cause widespread concern and require verification.
- How can users safeguard themselves from spyware threats?
Users can install the latest iOS updates, keep all apps updated, avoid suspicious messages or links, and enable Lockdown Mode to significantly reduce the chances of an attack.
