Tata Electronics cyber-attack exposes iPhone 18 Pro documents on the dark web

A data breach linked to a cyber-attack on Tata Electronics, one of Apple’s partners in India, has allegedly left confidential documents about the forthcoming iPhone 18 Pro models exposed on the dark web. The leaked material is said to include component lists, supplier details and photographs of equipment being used during testing.

Reuters reports that the ransomware group World Leaks was responsible for publishing the information, claiming it extracted data from the Indian company’s systems. Among the released files are documents naming firms involved in supplying parts for Apple’s next smartphones, along with images showing prototypes undergoing durability checks.

iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max revealed?

Documents reviewed reportedly set out details for hundreds of components expected to be used in the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Their launch is anticipated for September, and the devices are expected to reflect the price rises previously announced by the US technology company. The identified parts include items connected to the camera system, the battery and the main logic board, and the handsets are also expected to be introduced by the new CEO, John Ternus.

Photos show iPhone-style prototypes during drop tests

The published photographs appear to show smartphones with a design close to the most recent iPhone generations, including three rear cameras and the Apple logo. The images were reportedly taken at a Tata Electronics facility during drop tests carried out earlier this year. Neither Apple nor Tata Electronics responded to Reuters’ requests for comment on the incident.

India becomes increasingly important for manufacturing

Over recent years, Tata Electronics has become one of Apple’s key industrial partners outside China. The company supplies components and is also involved in assembling iPhones, playing an important role in Apple’s strategy to diversify production and reduce reliance on the Chinese market.

Apple is already investigating the incident alongside Tata. According to details previously reported by Reuters, the Indian firm restricted access to certain internal systems and hired external specialists to assess the source and scope of the data leak. Counterpoint Research forecasts that the country will account for around 26% of global iPhone production in 2026, a substantial rise from the 6% recorded four years ago.