Apple Faces Major Data Leak After Cyberattack on Indian Supplier Ahead of iPhone 18 Pro Launch

Over 200,000 files including internal documents, supplier lists, and images of the unreleased iPhone 18 Pro have been leaked on the dark web following a cyberattack on Tata Electronics, a key Apple manufacturing partner in India. The leaked materials reveal detailed mappings of hundreds of iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max components such as chips, batteries, and cameras, along with at least six documents outlining the supply chain marked "Apple Confidential" and containing internal Apple codenames. Photographs from early 2026 drop tests at Tata’s facility show a gray iPhone model with three rear cameras and the Apple logo.

The ransomware group World Leaks claimed responsibility for publishing the stolen data, which has circulated on the dark web since June 10. The files also include information related to Tesla, another Tata client. Tata Electronics, which assembles iPhones in India as part of Apple's strategy to diversify production outside China, has restricted access to sensitive systems and hired an international consultancy to conduct a forensic investigation. Apple is actively investigating the breach and collaborating with Tata to mitigate damage.

India is expected to produce about 26% of global iPhone units in 2026, up from 6% four years ago. The iPhone 18 Pro models are scheduled for release in September. This leak follows Apple's recent price increases for iPads and MacBooks due to rising memory chip and storage costs, with analysts predicting upcoming iPhone price hikes as well. The breach could strain the relationship between Apple and Tata Electronics as the companies work to contain the fallout.