Apple has warned at least two people in India about Pegasus-like spyware attacks on their iPhones, which is a worrying development. On July 10, 2024, Pushparaj Deshpande, the founder of the Samruddha Bharat Foundation, and political advisor Iltija Mufti, daughter of former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, received these alerts from each other.
The Pegasus Spyware: An Overview
What is pegasus spyware?
Pegasus is an advanced spyware programme created by NSO Group, an Israeli cyberarms company. It is intended to compromise smartphones, giving hackers access to private messages, images, and other data, as well as full control over the microphone and camera on the device. Although Pegasus is normally only sold to government organisations for legitimate surveillance needs, its use has brought up serious ethical and privacy issues.
History of Pegasus Spyware
Pegasus first gained international attention in 2016 when it was discovered on the phone of a human rights activist. Since then, multiple reports and investigations have revealed its use against journalists, activists, and political figures worldwide. The spyware’s capabilities and the ease with which it can be deployed make it a powerful tool for surveillance but also a significant threat to privacy and civil liberties.
Recent alerts in India
Details of the Recent Alerts
On July 10, 2024, Iltija Mufti and Pushparaj Deshpande received notifications from Apple warning them of potential spyware attacks. These alerts indicate that their devices might be targeted by a "mercenary" attack, a term Apple uses for sophisticated cyberattacks often associated with state-backed actors.
Got an Apple alert that my phone’s been hacked by Pegasus which GOI has admittedly procured & weaponised to harass critics & political opponents. BJP shamelessly snoops on women only because we refuse to toe their line. How low will you stoop? @PMOIndia @HMOIndia pic.twitter.com/ohzbCO8txI— Iltija Mufti (@IltijaMufti_) July 10, 2024
Reactions from the Affected Individuals
Both Mufti and Deshpande have expressed concerns over the alerts, suggesting possible involvement by the Indian government. Mufti accused the government of targeting women who oppose their policies, while Deshpande highlighted the government’s misplaced priorities in deploying such spyware.
Countless problems facing India which GoI should be redressing. Instead it’s more focused in deploying #Pegasus to scare & suppress.
Let PM @narendramodi & HM @AmitShah do their worst. We shall prevail ✊🏻! pic.twitter.com/gb9Qky3kut— Pushparaj Deshpande | पुष्पराज देशपांडे | પુષ્પરાજ (@PushparajVD) July 10, 2024
Government’s Stance and Past Instances
No information about the use of Pegasus spyware has been provided by the Indian government. Past instances, such as the 2021 revelations by the Forbidden Stories collective, have shown a pattern of targeting journalists, activists, and opposition figures, raising questions about the extent and legality of such surveillance practices.
For more on this, Read: Amnesty International Report Exposes Pegasus Spyware Targeting Indian Journalists
How to Detect Pegasus Spyware on iOS Devices
- Update Your iOS: Ensure your device is running the latest version of iOS, as Apple frequently releases security patches to protect against known vulnerabilities.
- Check for Unusual Behaviour: Monitor your device for signs of unusual activity, such as battery drain, overheating, or unexpected data usage.
- Use Security Tools: Utilise reputable mobile security apps to scan your device for potential threats.
- Consult professionals: If you receive an alert or suspect your device is compromised, seek forensic analysis from cybersecurity experts.
The Impact of Spyware on Privacy and Security
♦ Privacy Concerns
The use of spyware like Pegasus raises significant privacy concerns, as it can lead to unauthorised access to personal information, violating individuals' rights to privacy and freedom of expression.
♦ Legal and ethical implications
The deployment of such spyware, especially if used against journalists, activists, and political opponents, poses serious ethical and legal questions. Governments must balance the need for national security with the protection of civil liberties and human rights.
Global Reactions and Regulations
The international community has reacted strongly to revelations about the misuse of spyware, calling for stricter regulations and oversight to prevent abuse. Organisations and governments are increasingly advocating for transparency and accountability in the use of surveillance technologies.
Conclusion
The recent Pegasus-like spyware alerts issued by Apple to individuals in India underscore the ongoing threats to digital privacy and security. As surveillance technologies become more advanced, it is crucial for individuals to stay informed and vigilant and for governments to ensure transparency and accountability in their use of such tools. The balance between national security and the protection of civil liberties remains a critical issue in the digital age.
Inputs: Agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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