NSO Group to Pay $167.25 Million in Damages to Meta for Pegasus Spyware Attack

In a landmark decision, a federal jury in California has ordered the Israeli spyware-maker NSO Group to pay Meta $167.25 million for hacking 1,400 users across WhatsApp with its Pegasus spyware. This ruling comes after Citizen Lab discovered a vulnerability that allowed NSO Group to install Pegasus through phone calls, even if the users did not answer. Pegasus was able to access the users’ cameras, microphones, emails, text messages, and location information, targeting activists, journalists, diplomats, and others. Apple has also taken legal action against NSO Group for targeting iPhone users with Pegasus. In addition to the damages awarded, Meta also received $444,719 in compensatory damages. Meta hailed the verdict as a victory for privacy and security, calling it an important step forward in the fight against illegal spyware that threatens the safety and privacy of individuals. Moving forward, Meta plans to seek a court order preventing NSO Group from targeting WhatsApp and has pledged to donate to digital rights organizations working to protect users from spyware. NSO Group spokesperson Gil Lainer has stated that the company will review the verdict and pursue legal remedies, including potential appeals. This verdict marks a significant development in the ongoing battle against malicious spyware and highlights the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.