iWorld
Ericsson secures multi-billion dollar 5G deal with Bharti Airtel
In a significant boost to India’s telecom landscape, Ericsson has clinched a multi-billion dollar contract with Bharti Airtel to supply advanced 5G equipment. This partnership signals a pivotal moment in the rollout of next-generation mobile connectivity across the nation. As demand for high-speed internet and seamless connectivity skyrockets, this collaboration promises to enhance Airtel’s network capabilities, positioning it at the forefront of the telecom revolution.
Ericsson’s latest deal with Bharti Airtel aims to strengthen the latter’s 5G infrastructure, enabling improved network performance and expanded coverage. The announcement comes at a crucial time as both companies gear up to meet the growing consumer demand for faster and more reliable mobile services.
“Ericsson’s extensive experience and innovative technology will significantly enhance our 5G offerings,” said a spokesperson from Bharti Airtel. “This partnership not only reaffirms our commitment to delivering top-notch connectivity but also strengthens our position as a leading telecom provider in India.”
Industry experts view this contract as a strategic move, further solidifying the collaboration between the two telecom giants. With Ericsson’s advanced network solutions, Airtel aims to offer enhanced user experiences and drive digital transformation in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and entertainment.
This contract aligns with the Indian government’s vision of transforming the country into a global digital hub, boosting economic growth and innovation. As Airtel rolls out its 5G services powered by Ericsson’s technology, customers can expect a leap in internet speeds, latency reductions, and innovative applications tailored to meet their evolving needs.
Ericsson’s success in securing this contract underscores its strong foothold in the Indian market, further solidifying its reputation as a leading provider of telecom infrastructure. With the ongoing rollout of 5G technology, both companies are poised to play a significant role in shaping India’s digital future.
iWorld
Meta warns 200 users after fake Whatsapp spyware attack
Italy-targeted campaign used unofficial app to deploy surveillance spyware.
MUMBAI: It looked like a message, but it behaved like a mole. Meta has warned around 200 users most of them in Italy after uncovering a targeted spyware campaign that weaponised a fake version of WhatsApp to infiltrate devices. The attack, first reported by Agenzia Nazionale Stampa Associata, relied on classic social engineering with a modern twist: persuading users to download an unofficial WhatsApp clone embedded with surveillance software. The malicious application, believed to be developed by Italian firm SIO through its subsidiary ASIGINT, was designed to mimic the real app closely enough to bypass suspicion.
Meta’s security teams identified roughly 200 individuals who may have installed the compromised version, triggering immediate countermeasures. Affected users were logged out of their accounts and issued alerts warning of potential privacy breaches, with the company describing the incident as a “targeted social engineering attempt” aimed at gaining device-level access.
The malicious app was not distributed via official app stores but circulated through third-party channels, where it was presented as a legitimate WhatsApp alternative. Once installed, it reportedly allowed external operators to access sensitive data stored on the device turning a simple download into a potential surveillance gateway.
According to Techcrunch, Meta is now preparing legal action against the spyware developers to curb further misuse. The company, however, has not disclosed details about the specific individuals targeted or the extent of data compromised.
A Whatsapp spokesperson reiterated that user safety remains the top priority, particularly for those misled into installing the fake iOS application. Meanwhile, reports from La Repubblica suggest the spyware may be linked to “Spyrtacus”, a strain previously associated with Android-based attacks that could intercept calls, activate microphones and even access cameras.
The episode underscores a growing reality in the digital age, the threat is no longer just what you download, but where you download it from. As unofficial apps become increasingly convincing, the line between communication tool and covert surveillance is getting harder to spot and far easier to exploit.
