Government Seeks Explanation from Apple Over Spyware Alerts

The Indian government has reportedly issued a notice to Apple seeking clarification over recent alerts sent to iPhone users warning of possible “mercenary spyware” attacks. The move follows concerns raised after several individuals, including journalists and public figures, received notifications from Apple claiming they were being targeted by sophisticated spyware typically associated with state or private surveillance actors.

According to reports, the government has asked Apple to explain the basis, methodology, and evidence behind these alerts, as well as the specific threat intelligence used to classify such attacks as “mercenary spyware.” Authorities are said to be examining whether the warnings could create unnecessary alarm or have wider implications for public trust and national security narratives.

Apple, which has issued similar alerts globally, maintains that these notifications are part of its broader user-safety framework. The company has previously stated that it detects such threats through internal threat intelligence signals but does not attribute attacks to any specific country or government. Apple has also acknowledged that while such alerts may not be perfectly accurate, they are issued when the risk appears credible.

The episode has reignited debate around digital surveillance, user privacy, and accountability of global technology companies operating in India. It also raises questions about transparency in threat disclosure and the role of private firms in issuing security warnings with potential political and legal sensitivity.

As discussions continue, the matter underscores the growing tension between cybersecurity, sovereignty, and user protection in an increasingly surveilled digital ecosystem.