A comprehensive system of 23 interconnected vulnerabilities threatens millions of iPhones

[Image of iPhone]

The Coruna hack threatens millions of iPhones and exposes serious vulnerabilities

In an era where smartphones have become central to managing our digital lives, the phone is no longer just a means of communication or a social networking tool. It has transformed into a sensitive digital vault containing our personal, professional, and financial data.

Within these small devices lie our private photos, conversations, bank accounts, and cryptocurrency wallets, making any threat targeting these devices a direct threat to our digital security. Therefore, the existence of a hacking tool capable of targeting millions of smartphones simultaneously is no longer just a passing tech news item, but a matter of global cybersecurity concern.

So, what is the story behind the Coruna hacking tool that has alarmed cybersecurity experts?

 Phone Hacking and Data Breach (Illustrative Image))

A Comprehensive System of Vulnerabilities

Dr. Mohamed Mohsen Ramadan, Head of the Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity Unit at the Arab Center for Research and Studies, told Al-Arabiya.net and Al-Hadath.net: "The Coruna hacking tool represents an advanced model of complex cyberattacks. 

It doesn't rely on a single vulnerability, but rather a comprehensive system comprising 23 interconnected vulnerabilities that operate as a sequential exploit chain capable of bypassing the layers of protection in the iOS system."

He added: "The danger of the tool lies in using one vulnerability to pave the way for another, enabling the attacker to circumvent security restrictions. This level of complexity indicates that the tool's development was not the work of an individual, but rather likely involved highly experienced technical teams."

He pointed out that the technical analysis of the vulnerabilities suggests that the tool's development may have originated in advanced cyber environments, perhaps within government or intelligence programs, before it was leaked or repurposed later. He confirmed that the vulnerabilities affected iOS versions 13 through 17.2.1, but recent updates and Lockdown Mode reduce the chances of sophisticated attacks succeeding.

Targeting Financial Data

For his part, Major General Mohamed Abdel Wahed, Assistant Minister of the Interior and former Director of the General Administration of Information Technology and Internet Investigations, told Al-Arabiya.

net and Al-Hadath.net: "The use of such tools is no longer limited to espionage or political targeting. There are now indications of targeting digital gambling platforms and some cryptocurrency websites, reflecting a shift from traditional espionage to targeting financial data."

He added: "This incident reopens the debate surrounding the zero-day vulnerability market, where undiscovered vulnerabilities are sold for huge sums, turning them into tools in a global technological race between governments, companies, and criminal entities."

He concluded: "The Corona story is not just a passing technical incident, but rather an indicator of the nature of future cyber threats. Adhering to the updates of digital systems and activating advanced protection tools is a real necessity, and digital awareness is the first line of defense for protecting our data and digital identity."