Government Alert: iPhone Users in Pakistan Targeted by Hackers

In connection with the incidents, the Cabinet Division has issued a cyber security advisory warning Apple iPhone users in Pakistan about the potential risks of hackers using the BlastPass exploit to deploy the infamous Pegasus spyware. has been done This article will provide the necessary information and security measures to protect your device from these malicious attacks.

Danger:

The advisory highlights that Apple iPhone users are at risk of being targeted by NSO Group's notorious spyware, Pegasus, which can compromise your device's security and privacy. Hackers launch their exploits through the iMessage feature, specifically exploiting CVE-2023-41061 and CVE-2023-41064, to deploy BlastPass—a zero-day, zero-click malware.

Understanding the Blast Pass exploit:

Blast Pass is a highly sophisticated malware capable of infecting even the latest iOS versions, including version 16.6, without requiring any user interaction. Apple has taken note of this vulnerability and has issued a remedial advisory to protect its users.

Security measures to prevent BlastPass exploits:

Follow these specific security measures to protect your iPhone from BlastPass exploits and other cyber attacks:

• Update to the latest iOS version:

Make sure your iPhone is running the latest iOS version (16.6.1 or higher) to take advantage of the necessary security updates to address ongoing threats.

• Enable Lockdown Mode:

For extreme protection, consider enabling Lockdown Mode, which can effectively block Blastpass attacks.

• Disable the iMessage feature:

Since the exploit occurs through iMessage, consider temporarily disabling this feature to reduce the risk.

• Additional security measures for Apple users:

In addition to the specific security measures mentioned above, here are some general security measures to strengthen your iPhone's security:

• Strong passcodes and two-factor authentication:

Protect your device with a strong passcode and enable two-factor authentication for your Apple ID to increase security.

Official App Store only:

Download and install apps exclusively from the official Apple App Store to reduce the risk of malware and infection.

• Anonymity and Identity Protection:

When browsing the Internet, use anonymization solutions to hide your identity, especially if you hold important appointments or sensitive positions.

• Disable location services:

For increased privacy, always disable location services on your Apple devices unless necessary for a specific app or service.

• Stay informed:

Subscribe to Apple's security bulletins, threat notifications, and Auto OS update features to stay informed about the latest security developments.

• Avoid using the phone in sensitive areas:

Be careful and avoid using your iPhone in sensitive places or during important meetings to reduce the potential risk of eavesdropping.

Result:

A recent warning from the Cabinet Division highlights the importance of taking cyber security seriously, especially for Apple iPhone users in Pakistan. By following these security measures and adopting additional security measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of BlastPass exploits and other cyber threats. Stay informed and take proactive steps to protect your iPhone and personal information.