Contents
Introduction:
Attack on iPhones : Apple has issued a warning to multiple prominent leaders of India’s opposition parties and several journalists, stating that they are being targeted by state-sponsored attackers aiming to compromise their iPhones. The attackers aim to gain unauthorized access to their sensitive data, communications, and even their camera and microphone. This alert, which was received by individuals such as Mahua Moitra, Priyanka Chaturvedi, and Shashi Tharoor, highlights the seriousness of the situation and the need for immediate action.
Revealing the Targets:
The individuals who have received notifications from Apple about this state-sponsored attack include
- Mahua Moitra,
- Priyanka Chaturvedi,
- Raghav Chadha,
- Shashi Tharoor,
- Asaduddin Owaisi,
- Sitaram Yechury,
- Pawan Khera,
- Akhilesh Yadav,
- Siddharth Varadarajan,
- Sriram Karri,
- Samir Saran,
- Revathi,
- K.C. Venugopal,
- Supriya Sule,
- Multiple people associated with Congress MP Rahul Gandhi’s office.
Apple believes that these attacks are motivated by the individuals’ positions, highlighting the specific targeting that is taking place.
The Warning:
The email received from Apple, titled “ALERT: State-sponsored attackers may be targeting your iPhone,” emphasizes the severity of the situation and advises the recipients to take the warning seriously. It cautions that the hackers may gain remote access to sensitive data, communications, and even the camera and microphone of the compromised devices. Apple acknowledges the possibility of this being a false alarm but urges the recipients to remain vigilant and secure their devices.
Notable Reactions:
Many of the targets have taken to social media to express their concern and frustration regarding the attacks. Priyanka Chaturvedi tweeted the Apple notification, expressing her disappointment, stating “Wonder who? Shame on you.”
Wonder who? Shame on you.
— Priyanka Chaturvedi🇮🇳 (@priyankac19) October 30, 2023
Cc: @HMOIndia for your kind attention pic.twitter.com/COUJyisRDk
Pawan Khera questioned the Modi government’s involvement and asked, “Dear Modi Sarkar, why are you doing this?”
Dear Modi Sarkar, why are you doing this? pic.twitter.com/3hWmAx00ql
— Pawan Khera 🇮🇳 (@Pawankhera) October 31, 2023
Shashi Tharoor criticized the government’s actions and expressed his dissatisfaction by highlighting that there are more important issues to address.
Understanding the Significance:
The similarity of the language used in Apple’s warning to previous instances of spyware alerts indicates that these attacks have unique characteristics specific to India. In light of previous instances where Pegasus spyware targeted activists, public officials, and journalists, the situation raises concerns about the state of democracy in India. The Internet Freedom Foundation emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the source and extent of these attacks, underscoring its potential impact on democracy.
Connecting the Dots:
Individuals such as Siddharth Varadarajan, known for their critical stance against the Modi government, have previously been targeted by the Pegasus spyware. This context, combined with reports and investigations by reputable organizations, provides credibility to the Apple warnings. Apple’s recent warning to Russian journalists further strengthens the validity of these notifications.
Continued Scrutiny and Investigation:
The Wire has approached Apple for further details and clarification regarding these attacks. As the story develops, Apple’s response will be sought to shed more light on the extent and nature of these state-sponsored attacks. The Supreme Court committee investigating the use of Pegasus spyware is expected to release its final report soon, providing more insight into the situation. The search for alternative spyware options with lower profiles than Pegasus highlights the ongoing efforts of the Indian government to acquire new technology.
Conclusion:
The warning issued by Apple to top Indian opposition leaders and journalists about state-sponsored attacks on their iPhones is a matter of grave concern. The targeted individuals and their supporters are demanding answers and highlighting the potential implications for democracy and free speech. As the investigation continues, it is crucial to address this issue head-on and ensure that the privacy and security of individuals are protected in the face of growing cyber threats.