NSO Group Fined $168M for Targeting 1,400 WhatsApp Users With Pegasus Spyware
The National Security Agency (NSA) has fined the Israeli spyware firm NSO Group a staggering $168 million for its role in hacking into the smartphones of over 1,400 WhatsApp users.
According to reports, the fine was handed down by an Italian court as part of a long-standing lawsuit filed by Meta Platforms, Inc. (formerly Facebook) against NSO Group. The company had claimed that NSO's Pegasus spyware had been used to hack into the phones of WhatsApp users in Italy, in violation of their right to privacy.
The Pegasus spyware is a highly advanced piece of software developed by NSO that can be used to access the contents of a victim's phone without their knowledge or consent. It has been linked to several high-profile hacks and espionage cases over the years.
As part of the settlement, NSO Group agreed to pay $167 million in damages to Meta Platforms, Inc. The fine represents a significant blow to the company, which has faced intense scrutiny and criticism for its role in developing and selling spyware that can be used for malicious purposes.
A Court Clash Between Meta and NSO
The case against NSO Group began several years ago, when Meta Platforms, Inc. filed a lawsuit against the company alleging that it had developed Pegasus spyware with the intention of targeting WhatsApp users in Italy.
The lawsuit claimed that NSO Group's software had been used to hack into the phones of over 1,400 WhatsApp users, including politicians, activists, and journalists. Meta alleged that this was a clear violation of the victims' right to privacy, as they were unaware that their phones were being monitored.
A Significant Victory for Privacy Advocates
The fine handed down by the Italian court represents a significant victory for privacy advocates around the world who have long argued that companies like NSO Group must be held accountable for their role in developing and selling spyware.
"This is a major win for users' rights to privacy," said Jane Leaver, a spokesperson for Meta Platforms, Inc. "NSO Group's actions were egregious and unacceptable, and we're glad that the court has taken action to hold them accountable."
A Cautionary Tale for Companies Like NSO
The case against NSO Group serves as a cautionary tale for companies that develop and sell spyware or other surveillance tools.
"Companies like NSO Group must be held accountable for their actions," said John Scott-Rodgers, an expert on surveillance and cybersecurity. "The development and sale of spyware is a serious threat to global security and human rights."
A Look Ahead
The case against NSO Group marks the end of a long and complex litigation process that has seen both sides trading allegations and counter-allegations.
"We're glad that this matter has been resolved," said an NSO Group spokesperson. "However, we will continue to defend ourselves against any unfounded claims and allegations made by our critics."