A newly discovered spyware called DarkSword has sparked fresh concerns about the safety of iPhone users, with experts warning that millions of devices could be vulnerable to data theft.
The threat mainly affects iPhones that are not updated to the latest version of Apple’s iOS. Since many users delay updates, a large number of devices may still be exposed to this risk.
What makes DarkSword particularly worrying is how easily it can infect a device. Users don’t need to download an app or file, simply clicking on a malicious link or visiting a compromised website can trigger the attack. This means even careful users could unknowingly fall victim.
Once inside, the spyware can access a wide range of personal information. This includes messages, contacts, photos, call history, and even location data. In some cases, it may also steal login details for apps, putting users at risk of financial fraud or identity theft.
Experts say the spyware is difficult to detect because it uses advanced techniques that leave little to no trace. It can run quietly in the background and may even disappear after a device is restarted, making it harder to identify.
Although such tools were earlier used mainly for targeted surveillance, researchers warn that threats like DarkSword are now becoming more widespread, increasing risks for everyday users.
The good news is that Apple has already released security updates to fix the issue. Users who have updated their iPhones to the latest iOS version are largely protected from this threat.