Apple Doubles Bug Bounty to $2M for Zero-Click Exploits

Apple has doubled their maximum bug bounty payouts to an unprecedented $2 million for zero-click exploit chains, and they’re not stopping there.

In its announcement, the tech titan says it is “featuring the industry’s highest rewards, expanded research categories, and a flag system for researchers to objectively demonstrate vulnerabilities and obtain accelerated awards.”

Recent events show why Apple needs this nuclear option. Last month’s image processing flaw was used in extremely sophisticated attacks against specific targeted individuals. Professional-grade spyware that could silently compromise a device with a single malicious image file in a chat thread.

The company has already paid over $35 million to more than 800 researchers since launching its public program in 2019, including multiple half-million-dollar rewards. The rise of state-sponsored hackers and commercial spyware outfits calls for a bigger stick.

Apple also points out that mercenary spyware dealers hunt for these exact vulnerabilities, turning security research into a bidding war between companies and shadowy exploitation markets.

What this means for digital security

These changes take effect next month. In theory, bigger bounties draw more researchers, which leads to faster patches and fewer surprises for the rest of us. The flip side is hard to ignore, $2 million payouts exist because the attack methods are real, active, and lucrative.

For everyday users, it is both reassuring and sobering. Apple is willing to put serious money on the table, a clear sign of commitment to security, but it also admits the threats have never been more serious or well funded.

The arms race just leveled up, stakes rising along with the paychecks. Apple’s stance is loud and clear, pay whatever it takes to keep the good guys a step ahead of an increasingly dangerous and profitable exploitation market that thrives in the shadows.