In recent years, Russian experts from the cybersecurity firm Kaspersky Lab have been targeted by the most sophisticated exploit in history. Unknown attackers gained full access to iPhones by exploiting vulnerabilities that even surpassed the software developers’ expectations.
Turning iPhones into spy devices:
AppleInsider reports that cybersecurity experts have uncovered a four-year-long campaign to hack iPhones, primarily targeting the Russian company Kaspersky. This operation, known as Operation Triangulation, consisted of a series of exploits, exploiting software vulnerabilities. The attack was focused on the iOS operating system version 16.2 and started with an iMessage attachment in PDF format. Opening this attachment triggered a sequence of four exploits that hackers discovered faster than engineers.
Difficulty in detection and attack persistence:
The attack lasted for four years, made possible by the difficulty in detecting the infection. A key element of the attack was the use of special hardware control mechanisms that bypassed Apple Page Protection. Hackers could access geolocation data, photos, and audio recordings, essentially turning the devices into spy tools.
Response and consequences:
Resetting the device could remove the infection, but clicking on the iMessage attachment again would restart the attack. Unfortunately, the responsible party for this attack is still unknown. In addition to Kaspersky Lab employees, some Russian officials were also victims. Apple claims that the Operation Triangulation issue has been resolved, but this incident has seriously undermined the security reputation of iPhones.
Hackers – individuals who possess the skills and knowledge necessary for unauthorized access to computer systems and networks for data theft or making changes.
Exploit – a program or code that exploits software vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to a system.
Operation Triangulation – a four-year-long campaign to hack iPhones by unknown attackers, primarily targeting the Russian company Kaspersky.
iOS – an operating system developed by Apple Inc.
Geolocation – the process of determining real-world locations using GPS signals or cellular network information.
Apple Page Protection – a feature that secures data and applications on Apple devices.
Stock image – a photo that is available for purchase and use without restrictions.
FAQs:
Q: Have the hackers been identified?
A: Unfortunately, the identity of the hackers is still unknown.
Q: How can one protect themselves from such attacks?
A: Keeping the device updated and avoiding opening iMessage attachments from unknown or suspicious sources.
Q: Does this mean iPhones are not secure?
A: Despite this incident, iPhones are still considered one of the most secure smartphones on the market. However, exercising caution in digital security is always recommended.
Source: AppleInsider
The source of the article is from the blog crasel.tk