Global warning over cyber-attacks targeting users’ phones in over 150 countries

Google and Apple have issued a new round of cybersecurity warnings to users in more than 150 countries, including Egypt and Saudi Arabia, after detecting attempts to hack phones using advanced spyware linked to the Israeli company Intellexa, according to media reports.

The companies said the alerts are part of efforts to counter government-backed espionage campaigns targeting hundreds of accounts across multiple countries, aiming to strengthen privacy protections amid rising digital threats worldwide.

Google stated in a 3 December announcement that it had sent warnings to hundreds of accounts in countries including Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Angola, Egypt, Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia, and Tajikistan. Most of the attempts reportedly used spyware tools developed by Intellexa, including its well-known program Predator.

Media reports also said Apple sent warnings to iPhone users in over 80 countries during the latest round, bringing the total number of affected countries to more than 150.

Although the companies did not disclose the exact number of targeted users, the alerts include messages warning of “state-sponsored attacks” and advise users to update their devices and activate security features.

Google noted that Intellexa, which was sanctioned by the United States in 2024, continues its operations despite international pressure, exploiting zero-day vulnerabilities to hack phones without any interaction from the user.