Apple has issued an urgent security update for iOS 16.6.1 to fix a critical vulnerability that could allow hackers to install Pegasus spyware on iPhones without any user interaction. Pegasus is a powerful malware developed by the Israeli company NSO Group, which can track your location, monitor and record your calls and messages, and access your camera and microphone. Here’s what you need to know about this threat and how to protect your device.
What is Pegasus and how does it work?
Pegasus is a spyware that can infect iPhones and Android devices by exploiting unknown security flaws in the operating system, also known as zero-click exploits. This means that the attacker does not need the victim to click on a malicious link or attachment to infect the device. Instead, the attacker can send a specially crafted message or email that triggers the exploit and installs the spyware.
Once installed, Pegasus can access almost all the data and functions of the device, including contacts, photos, emails, messages, calls, browsing history, passwords, GPS location, microphone, camera, and more. It can also evade detection by antivirus software and self-destruct if it detects any attempt to remove it.
Pegasus is sold by NSO Group to government agencies and law enforcement agencies around the world, who claim to use it for fighting terrorism and crime. However, several investigations have revealed that Pegasus has been used to target journalists, activists, human rights defenders, lawyers, politicians, and dissidents in various countries.
How to update your iPhone and prevent Pegasus infection?
Apple has released a security update for iOS 16.6.1 that patches the vulnerability that was used to deliver Pegasus spyware to some iPhone users. The update also fixes another zero-click exploit that was found by Apple itself. To update your iPhone, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Tap Download and Install.
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
- Wait for the update to complete and restart your device.
Updating your iPhone is the most effective way to prevent Pegasus infection, as it closes the security holes that the spyware exploits. However, you should also take some additional precautions to protect your device and data from other potential threats:
- Enable Lockdown Mode on your iPhone by pressing the power button five times quickly. This will disable Face ID or Touch ID and require a passcode to unlock the device. Lockdown Mode can block some types of zero-click attacks that use biometric authentication.
- Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication for your online accounts and apps. This will make it harder for hackers to access your data even if they manage to infect your device.
- Avoid opening suspicious links or attachments from unknown sources. Even though Pegasus can infect devices without user interaction, some other malware may still rely on phishing or social engineering techniques to trick users into clicking on malicious content.
- Use encrypted messaging apps like Signal or WhatsApp that offer end-to-end encryption for your communications. This will prevent hackers from intercepting or reading your messages even if they have access to your device or network.
- Backup your data regularly to a secure cloud service or an external hard drive. This will help you recover your data in case of a malware attack or a device loss or theft.
How to check if your iPhone is infected with Pegasus?
There is no definitive way to check if your iPhone is infected with Pegasus, as the spyware is designed to hide its presence and activity from the user and security software. However, there are some signs that may indicate a possible infection, such as:
- Unusual battery drain or overheating of the device.
- Increased data usage or network activity.
- Unexpected pop-ups or notifications.
- Strange behavior of apps or settings.
- Unknown contacts or messages on the device.
If you notice any of these signs, you should scan your device with a reputable antivirus app and contact Apple support for further assistance. You should also change your passwords and review your account activity for any suspicious activity.
Pegasus is a serious threat that can compromise your privacy and security on your iPhone. By updating your device regularly and following some basic security practices, you can protect yourself from this spyware and other malware.
