Although advanced spyware attacks do not affect most smartphone users, cybersecurity researchers stress that awareness is essential as these tools continue to spread globally. Even individuals who are not public figures are advised to remain cautious.
In December, hundreds of iPhone and Android users received official threat alerts stating that their devices had been targeted by spyware. Shortly after these notifications, Apple and Google released security patches addressing vulnerabilities that experts believe were exploited to install the malware on a small number of phones.
Spyware poses an extreme risk because it allows attackers to monitor nearly every activity on a smartphone. This includes access to calls, messages, keystrokes, screenshots, notifications, and even encrypted platforms such as WhatsApp and Signal. Despite its intrusive capabilities, spyware is usually deployed in targeted operations against journalists, political figures, activists, and business leaders in sensitive industries.
High-profile cases have demonstrated the seriousness of these attacks. Former Amazon chief executive Jeff Bezos and Hanan Elatr, the wife of murdered Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi, were both compromised through Pegasus spyware developed by the NSO Group. These incidents illustrate how personal data can be accessed without user awareness.
Spyware activity remains concentrated within these circles, but researchers suggest its reach may be expanding. In early December, Google issued threat notifications and disclosed findings showing that an exploit chain had been used to silently install Predator spyware. Around the same time, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency warned that attackers were actively exploiting mobile messaging applications using commercial surveillance tools.
One of the most dangerous techniques involved is known as a zero-click attack. In such cases, a device can be infected without the user clicking a link, opening a message, or downloading a file. According to Malwarebytes researcher Pieter Arntz, once infected, attackers can read messages, track keystrokes, capture screenshots, monitor notifications, and access banking applications. Rocky Cole of iVerify adds that spyware can also extract emails and texts, steal credentials, send messages, and access cloud accounts.
Spyware may also spread through malicious links, fake applications, infected images, browser vulnerabilities, or harmful browser extensions. Recorded Future’s Richard LaTulip notes that recent research into malicious extensions shows how tools that appear harmless can function as surveillance mechanisms. These methods, often associated with nation-state actors, are designed to remain hidden and persistent.
Governments and spyware vendors frequently claim such tools are used only for law enforcement or national security. However, Amnesty International researcher Rebecca White states that journalists, activists, and others have been unlawfully targeted worldwide, using spyware as a method of repression. Thai activist Niraphorn Onnkhaow was targeted multiple times during pro-democracy protests between 2020 and 2021, eventually withdrawing from activism due to fears her data could be misused.
Detecting spyware is challenging. Devices may show subtle signs such as overheating, performance issues, or unexpected camera or microphone activation. Official threat alerts from Apple, Google, or Meta should be treated seriously. Leaked private information can also indicate compromise.
To reduce risk, Apple offers Lockdown Mode, which limits certain functions to reduce attack surfaces. Apple security executive Ivan Krstić states that widespread iPhone malware has not been observed outside mercenary spyware campaigns. Apple has also introduced Memory Integrity Enforcement, an always-on protection designed to block memory-based exploits.
Google provides Advanced Protection for Android, enhanced in Android 16 with intrusion logging, USB safeguards, and network restrictions.
Experts recommend avoiding unknown links, limiting app installations, keeping devices updated, avoiding sideloading, and restarting phones periodically. However, confirmed infections often require replacing the device entirely. Organizations such as Amnesty International, Access Now, and Reporters Without Borders offer assistance to individuals who believe they have been targeted.
Security specialists advise staying cautious without allowing fear to disrupt normal device use.
