Reign, a spyware program with destructive capabilities similar to Pegasus, has been discovered by the University of Toronto Munch College Citizen Lab, IT Home reported April 12. The application may transmit data after infecting devices without the user’s knowledge.

The spyware mainly targets dignitaries, journalists and others, with at least 5 cases detected so far. Reign uses a vulnerability called “Endofdays” to attack iPhone devices with iOS 14.4 and iOS 14.4.2 updates.

Like Pegasus, after infecting an iPhone, Reign can gain access to various components of iOS and iPhone functions. Spyware can record calls and microphone input, take photos with the camera, extract or delete content from key fobs, generate iCloud 2FA passwords, search device files and databases, track device location, and clean software traces to minimize detectability.

Spyware is a growing concern in the digital age. It can be used without users’ knowledge or consent to collect sensitive information or control devices when it falls into the wrong hands. Spyware-infected devices can become tools for criminal activities such as identity theft, financial fraud, and espionage.

It is extremely important for phone users to take steps to protect against spyware attacks. This includes keeping devices up to date with the latest security patches and avoiding downloading apps from unknown sources. In addition, users should be wary of suspicious emails, messages or phone calls that may contain phishing links or malicious attachments.