In the autumn Apple will be adding “Lockdown mode” functionality to the range of it’s operating systems – iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS Ventura. For a drastic reduction in functionality, users, who are at risk from sophisticated cyber attacks, such as those posed by Pegasus and Hermit spyware, will be able to protect the information on their devices and maintain their privacy. For instance incoming FaceTime calls would be blocked unless the user had previously called the calling party or requested the call. Restrictions would also be in place with Apps and when the device was connected to a network or computer.
These types of cyber attacks have an element of “state sponsored hacking” to them as the legitimate companies selling this type of commercial spyware on the open market, only selling to governments and authorised law enforcement agencies.
Apple expands commitment to protect users from mercenary spyware – Apple
To be honest this is not the type of cyber security protection ordinary businesses and users will need, they would not be target of this class of attack. The security stance of Apple iPhones is ordinarily exceptionally good for most of us – but not perfect. It is good to see Apple to take such a strong stance on keeping their devices and so users, such as cyber security investigators, investigative journalists and political activists, are as secure as possible.
Other OS vendors need to make the same commitment.
Clive Catton MSc (Cyber Security) – by-line and other articles
Further Reading
Inside a commercial spyware company – Smart Thinking Solutions
