Deemed one of the most dangerous in the world, Pegasus spyware has infected iOS and Android devices alike. NSO Group, who is primarily known for selling surveillance tools to intelligence agencies has taken credit for developing Pegasus. This form of spyware allows for an agency or attacker to obtain a mass of data such as text messages, calendar events, personal emails, WhatsApp messages, user location, microphone, and camera access. Targets have been human rights organizations and civil society. Thirty-six operators have been using the tool in 45 countries around the world with at least 10 operators actively engaging in cross border surveillance. Although some users are operating in a lawful manor, six countries with Pegasus ops are known abusers. These countries include Bahrain, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. An NSO spokesperson released a statement saying, “Contrary to statements made by you, our product is licensed to government and law enforcement agencies for the sole purpose of investigating and preventing crime and terror. Our business is conducted in strict compliance with applicable export control laws.”
