WhatsApp, Apple patch major security flaw after a targeted spyware attack
TOI World Desk | Sep 04, 2025, 00:11 IST
Highlight of the story: WhatsApp and Apple have patched a serious security flaw that left iPhones and iPads vulnerable to sophisticated hacking attempts. The breach, which lasted about 90 days, targeted nearly 200 individuals rather than the general public. Researchers suspect spyware vendors were behind the attack. Both companies urge users to update their devices immediately.
WhatsApp has fixed a major security flaw that left some Apple devices exposed to sophisticated hacking attempts later this week.
The messaging app, owned by Meta Platforms, stated that a bug in its system, when combined with a flaw in Apple’s iOS and iPadOS software, allowed hackers to break into devices and steal information.
According to Amnesty International’s Security Lab, the hacking campaign lasted for about 90 days. The researchers also reported that other apps beyond WhatsApp have also been affected, even though it remains unclear.
The company said that the attack aimed at specific individuals rather than the broader public. The attack is said to have targeted nearly 200 people, and WhatsApp has already notified those users directly. WhatsApp stressed ordinary users were not the primary target.
Both WhatsApp and Apple are urging people to upgrade to the latest version of their software immediately to protect their devices from similar threats. Apple has fixed the vulnerability and closed security loopholes by releasing updates to iOS and iPadOS.
With no identity confirmed, the experts suspect spyware vendors for the attack; however, it remains unclear who carried out the attacks.
This incident serves as a reminder that no platform is entirely safe, and it is vital to keep apps and devices updated as cybersecurity threats continue to grow.
The messaging app, owned by Meta Platforms, stated that a bug in its system, when combined with a flaw in Apple’s iOS and iPadOS software, allowed hackers to break into devices and steal information.
According to Amnesty International’s Security Lab, the hacking campaign lasted for about 90 days. The researchers also reported that other apps beyond WhatsApp have also been affected, even though it remains unclear.
The company said that the attack aimed at specific individuals rather than the broader public. The attack is said to have targeted nearly 200 people, and WhatsApp has already notified those users directly. WhatsApp stressed ordinary users were not the primary target.
Both WhatsApp and Apple are urging people to upgrade to the latest version of their software immediately to protect their devices from similar threats. Apple has fixed the vulnerability and closed security loopholes by releasing updates to iOS and iPadOS.
With no identity confirmed, the experts suspect spyware vendors for the attack; however, it remains unclear who carried out the attacks.
This incident serves as a reminder that no platform is entirely safe, and it is vital to keep apps and devices updated as cybersecurity threats continue to grow.