Tech Giants Introduce New Features to Combat Spyware Threats

Rising Threat of Spyware

In recent years, spyware attacks have become increasingly prevalent, targeting journalists, human rights defenders, and political dissidents. These incidents are alarming and not isolated events; many have documented cases where sophisticated, stealthy spyware has been deployed against these vulnerable groups. A notable report in early 2025 detailed how WhatsApp alerted around 90 users, mainly journalists, informing them they were being targeted by the Israeli spyware firm Paragon Solutions. In several cases, spyware such as Paragon's Graphite was successfully installed via zero-click attacks, leaving targets unsuspecting and unaware until too late.

Such spyware allows its operators almost complete access to the victim’s device, leading to serious privacy invasions. This includes monitoring phone calls, stealing messages, collecting photos, and even accessing microphones and cameras remotely. As these threats escalate, major tech companies have responded by investing in robust security features designed to protect user data.

Security Innovations by Tech Giants

Apple’s Lockdown Mode

Apple has launched several initiatives to bolster user security, including its Lockdown Mode, available on all Apple devices. When enabled, the feature restricts various functionalities to better secure the device from intrusions. For example, it blocks most message attachments (other than select images and videos), disables incoming FaceTime calls from unknown contacts, and prevents connections to non-secure Wi-Fi networks.

Prior evidence suggests Lockdown Mode has proven effective in thwarting attacks, including one facilitated by NSO Group's Pegasus software. Users can activate it by navigating to Settings > Privacy & Security > Lockdown Mode, with a device restart required to implement changes.

Google’s Advanced Protection Program

In a similar vein, Google’s Advanced Protection Program—launched in 2017—aims to provide an extra layer of defense for Google accounts against adversaries. This program restricts access to third-party services, carries out deep scans for malicious content in Gmail, and requires additional verification methods when someone attempts to log in to your account. To enroll, users must visit Google’s official page and follow the instructions involving adding security keys and recovery options.

Android’s Advanced Protection Mode

Building on these efforts, Android introduced its Advanced Protection Mode recently, aimed at enhancing device security on the Android operating system. This feature includes strengthened protections such as restricting app installations to verified sources, automatic locking based on suspicious activities, and preventing USB devices from connecting when locked. Users can enable this by going to Settings > Security and Privacy > Other Settings > Advanced Protection.

WhatsApp’s Strict Account Settings

With over 3 billion users worldwide, WhatsApp also faces considerable threats from potential hacking attempts. In response, the platform rolled out Strict Account Settings this year. This opt-in feature facilitates essential security measures including two-step verification, alerts when there are account changes, and restrictions on media from unknown users. Switching it on involves accessing Settings > Privacy > Advanced.

Conclusion: Stay Protected

Given the increased sophistication of spyware attacks, utilizing these protective features from leading tech companies is not merely advisable but essential, especially for those at risk of becoming targets. Runa Sandvik, a notable security researcher, emphasized the importance of these freely available features, describing them as an essential line of defense for vulnerable individuals. While balance is a consideration (some features limit regular functionality), the protection they provide is invaluable and can be toggled on and off as needed. Users are strongly encouraged to activate these settings to safeguard their data amidst rising threats.