According to Google, a spyware system called Predator, developed by Intellexa, was used to attack "several hundred accounts" in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, as well as in a number of other countries, including Pakistan, Egypt, Angola, and Saudi Arabia.
Apple reported that notifications about potential surveillance were sent out on December 2. Although the exact number of attacked users was not specified, the company noted that warnings were issued in over 150 countries.
The Predator spyware system provides access to all functions of the victim's device, including the camera, microphone, geolocation, and correspondence in encrypted messengers.
Google also clarified that such notifications could serve as the beginning of international investigations. Previously, similar cases led to inquiries at the European Union level, where instances of espionage attacks on officials were also recorded.
Intellexa, founded in 2019 by former Israeli intelligence officer Tal Dilian, was sanctioned by the U.S. in 2024 for using its technologies against American officials and journalists.
Experts strongly recommend that users exercise increased vigilance: avoid clicking on suspicious links, do not open unfamiliar files, and minimize interaction with online advertisements.
