Notorious Spyware Provider Faces $167 Million Fine for Hacking WhatsApp Users

In a significant victory for security and consumer rights, a US jury has found a notorious spyware provider guilty of "malice" and ordered it to pay $167 million in damages for trying to hack 1,400 WhatsApp users. NSO Group, an Israeli company with a reputation for helping governments circulate spyware on iPhones and Android devices, is facing the consequences of its actions.

A History of Exploiting Vulnerabilities

WhatsApp sued NSO Group in 2019 after uncovering evidence that it had tried to hack 1,400 users, including human rights activists, by exploiting a vulnerability in the messaging app. The company's spyware, known as Pegasus, is capable of zero-click attacks that take over a device simply by sending a malicious text message to the targeted smartphone.

A Six-Year Court Process Comes to an End

Following a six-year court process, a jury in a California federal court ruled in favor of WhatsApp, ordering NSO Group to pay the messaging provider $167 million in damages. This verdict marks a significant milestone in the fight against spyware and highlights the importance of holding companies accountable for their actions.

A Win for Security and Consumer Rights

Meta-owned WhatsApp hailed the verdict, saying "our court case has made history as the first victory against illegal spyware that threatens the safety and privacy of everyone." The company added that "the jury's decision to force NSO to pay damages is a critical deterrent to this malicious industry against their illegal acts aimed at American companies and our users worldwide."

NSO Group Refuses to Accept Defeat

However, NSO Group tells PCMag that it plans to pursue "legal remedies," including filing an appeal. The company also justified its existence, saying its products are an important tool for law enforcement, even though its spyware programs have allegedly been found on phones belonging to journalists and government officials.

A Concerning Industry

The case exposed the inner workings of NSO Group, which could deter government clients from signing up, according to John Scott-Railton, a researcher with Citizen Lab, a watchdog group that investigates spyware. WhatsApp also warns that NSO Group remains a threat to consumer privacy, citing testimony and evidence introduced at trial.

A Blow to the Company

The ruling could be a huge blow for the company. As one expert notes, the case exposed the inner workings of NSO Group, which could deter government clients from signing up. WhatsApp also warns that NSO Group remains a threat to consumer privacy, citing testimony and evidence introduced at trial.

A New Era for Digital Rights

WhatsApp is indicating it plans on using at least some of the damages to donate to "digital rights organizations that are working to defend people" against spyware attacks. "Our next step is to secure a court order to prevent NSO from ever targeting WhatsApp again," it adds.

A Message to Consumers

The verdict sends a clear message to consumers: their digital safety and privacy are being taken seriously. As one expert notes, "this case highlights the importance of holding companies accountable for their actions and protecting users from malicious spyware."