CISA has issued a major alert warning that threat actors are actively leveraging commercial spyware and Remote Access Trojans (RATs) to compromise high-value users of Signal and WhatsApp. Attackers are using sophisticated social engineering to trick victims into installing payloads that grant full access to encrypted communications.
Business Impact
This undermines the perceived security of end-to-end encrypted messaging apps often used by executives for sensitive discussions. Successful compromise allows attackers to read messages, track location, and record calls, posing a severe risk of espionage and data leakage.
Why It Happened
Attackers are bypassing encryption by compromising the endpoint device itself. Techniques include exploiting “linked device” features and using zero-click exploits to install spyware that captures data before it is encrypted.
Recommended Executive Action
Review mobile security policies for executives and high-risk staff. Mandate “Lockdown Mode” on iOS devices where appropriate. Regularly audit “linked devices” in messaging apps and strictly prohibit the installation of unknown apps or configuration profiles.
Hashtags: #CISA #Spyware #MobileSecurity #Signal #WhatsApp #Espionage #CyberSecurity #InfoSec