Apple Releases an Emergency Security Update to Block NSO’s Pegasus Spyware
Pegasus Spyware, the ‘Privacy Killer’ can be installed remotely on devices running on iOS and Android systems. The trojan is automatically installed without the host even opening the infected message. It can completely monitor all activity on the targeted device by hacking into the operating system, without leaving any trace behind. All parts of your digital communication activity can be observed and stored.
With free reign over a device, systems like Pegasus can:
- Pinpoint hosts, gathering GPS information and location services.
- Intercept calls, monitoring voice calls in real-time.
- Monitor applications, including all social media and messaging apps such as Skype and WhatsApp.
- Collect unique information, such as, passwords, files, and contacts.
- Gain access to your camera and microphone.
- Handle encrypted content on your device.
This is all done independently of Mobile Network operators and eliminating the need to be within proximity of the device.
Researchers at apple found that using the zero-click infection method, NSO Group had invisibly contaminated users Apple devices without their knowledge. All types of Apple’s devices were vulnerable, iPhones, iPods, iPads, Mac computers and even Apple Watches. Apple rapidly developed a fix for the critical flaw in its products, encouraging customers to download the update immediately.
The update was released on Monday 13th September but the trojan is suspected to have been in use since February. The discovery means that more than 1.65 billion Apple products across the world have been affected and reporters have stated that attacks like this one are used to target specific individuals. Pegasus has been known to show up on the phones of people in all kinds of vocations, for example, business leaders, journalists, doctors, lawyers, activists. Companies like NSO have been known to have new spyware systems ready to go as soon as the previous is patched.
Let us help you protect your communications from trojans like this with BondiVoice APN, a smartphone app that allows two smartphones to correspond privately. Using advanced software and encryption algorithms, it prevents interception on end-to-end communications, making sure all the data gets to the right person and putting your mind at rest. As more work is increasingly being done remotely and with the use of Smartphones, it is imperative that you feel confident the information you are sharing with others is protected.
