WhatsApp patches exploit allowing hackers to target Apple users

New York – WhatsApp has corrected a security vulnerability that allowed sophisticated attacks on Apple devices for “specific targeted users”.

The messaging application, owned by Meta Platforms, said in a blog post that its vulnerability, chained by a bug found in iOS and iPados, allowed hackers to operate and steal information on Apple devices.

In an article on X, Amnesty’s security laboratory researcher, Donncha ó Cearbhail, said the malicious campaign had lasted approximately 90 days. He said other applications beyond WhatsApp may also have been affected.

WhatsApp said in a statement that less than 200 users were targeted and that the company had informed the people affected. All users have been encouraged to update their application to the latest version to solve the problem.

It is not immediately clear who, or which seller of spy software, is at the origin of the attacks.

Apple also recognized the vulnerability of its systems and has issued fixes to repair defects.