iPhones under attack as sophisticated hackers target millions worldwide – Apple warns

Apple warns iPhones under attack from sophisticated hackers using silent spyware exploits. Millions of users are urged to update to iOS 26 to protect their data, privacy, and devices.

 A Silent Threat in Your Pocket

Apple has issued a stark warning to iPhone users across the globe, cautioning that devices are under attack from highly sophisticated hackers capable of secretly breaking into phones without alerting their owners. The threat, Apple says, is not theoretical but active, placing hundreds of millions of users at potential risk as attackers exploit advanced spyware techniques to gain deep access to personal devices. The company’s alert comes amid concerns that a significant majority of users have yet to install iOS 26, the latest software update designed to fix critical security flaws.

Apple Warns: iPhones Under Attack by Invisible Spyware

According to Apple, the attacks rely on what cybersecurity experts describe as “zero-click exploits” — a particularly dangerous method that allows hackers to compromise a device without any interaction from the user. Victims do not need to click a suspicious link, open an attachment, or download an app. Instead, the spyware operates silently, making detection extremely difficult.

Once a device is compromised, attackers can gain sweeping control. Personal messages, photos, and sensitive documents may be accessed, while real-time location tracking can expose a user’s movements. In more severe cases, hackers can remotely activate the microphone and camera, or carry out financial fraud using stored payment details. Apple warns that this level of access poses a serious risk to both personal privacy and digital security.

Why iOS 26 Matters More Than Ever

Apple released iOS 26 on 15 September 2025, specifically addressing newly discovered vulnerabilities that are now being actively exploited. Despite this, adoption has been unexpectedly slow. As of January 2026, estimates suggest that up to 75% of iPhone users have not yet installed the update, leaving their devices exposed. Current usage reportedly sits between 16% and 20%, far below adoption rates seen with previous iOS releases.

One factor behind the hesitation appears to be iOS 26’s new “Liquid Glass” design. The translucent, dynamic interface — which shifts based on user behaviour — has divided opinion. While some praise its futuristic look, others describe it as distracting and difficult to navigate, prompting many to delay updating.

Expert Advice: Restart and Update Immediately

Cybersecurity specialists are urging users not to wait. A simple device restart, followed by updating to iOS 26, can significantly reduce risk. Researchers at Malwarebytes explain that many advanced spyware tools rely on users never rebooting their phones.

“Many people don’t realise that when devices reboot, any malware that is in the cache is disrupted unless it has managed to remain persistent,” the researchers note. They add that sophisticated spyware often avoids leaving traces, betting on prolonged device uptime to remain active.

Users are advised to restart their iPhones and then navigate to Settings → General → Software Update to install the latest version.

Apple Warns iPhones Under Attack — But Protection Is Available

While most iPhones currently run iOS 18 — supported by Apple’s extended security updates — iOS 26 introduces stronger defences. These include enhanced Safari protections against online tracking, automatic blocking of unsafe wired connections, and improved detection of fraudulent calls and messages.

Apple warns iPhones under attack is a message the company rarely issues lightly. The current threat underscores the importance of keeping devices up to date, even when new designs or features feel unfamiliar. In a digital landscape where attacks are becoming more precise and invisible, Apple’s message is clear: updating may be inconvenient, but failing to do so could be far more costly.