Critical Zero-Click Vulnerability in Apple Messages App Exploited to Spy on Journalists
TL;DR
Apple disclosed a critical zero-click vulnerability in its Messages app that was actively exploited to spy on journalists and civil society members. The flaw, tracked as CVE-2025-43200, was patched in February 2025. This highlights the importance of timely software updates and the ongoing threat of sophisticated cyber attacks.
Critical Zero-Click Vulnerability in Apple Messages App
Apple has recently disclosed a significant security flaw in its Messages app that was actively exploited in the wild to target journalists and civil society members. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2025-43200, allowed attackers to conduct sophisticated cyber espionage without any user interaction, making it a zero-click exploit.
Patch Details
The vulnerability was addressed on February 10, 2025, as part of the following updates:
- iOS 18.3.1
- iPadOS 18.3.1
- iPadOS 17.7.5
- macOS Sequoia 15.3.1
- macOS Sonoma 14.7.4
- macOS Ventura 13.7.4
- watchOS 11.3.1
Impact and Exploitation
The exploit enabled attackers to gain unauthorized access to devices, compromising the privacy and security of targeted individuals. This highlights the ongoing threat of zero-click vulnerabilities and the importance of timely software updates to mitigate such risks.
Paragon Spyware
The attacks utilized Paragon spyware, a sophisticated tool designed for stealthy surveillance. This spyware is known for its advanced capabilities in extracting sensitive information from targeted devices, posing a significant threat to privacy and security.
Conclusion
The discovery and patching of the CVE-2025-43200 vulnerability underscore the continuous need for vigilance in cybersecurity. Users are advised to keep their devices updated with the latest security patches to protect against such threats. As cyber espionage tactics evolve, staying informed and proactive remains crucial for safeguarding personal and organizational data.
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