At a Glance · AI-generated

Russian-linked hackers deployed a sophisticated malware tool called DarkSword to target iPhones beginning March 18, initially compromising devices belonging to Ukrainians before the threat expanded globally. The exploit chain affects hundreds of millions of iPhones running outdated iOS versions, particularly iOS 13, 14, and 18, and can be triggered through infected links. Apple issued urgent advisories on March 19 urging users to update their operating systems immediately to iOS 15 or later to defend against web-based attacks. Google researchers also identified additional exploit chains targeting legacy iPhone software.