Jury orders NSO Group to pay $168 million to WhatsApp for facilitating Pegasus hacks of its users
A Northern California jury has ruled that the NSO Group, a spyware manufacturer, must pay $167 million in punitive damages for hacking the mobile phones of 1,400 WhatsApp users. This decision is the climax of a six-year legal battle initiated by Meta in 2019, alleging that NSO persistently attacked WhatsApp using various spyware methods, even after the platform addressed vulnerabilities.
The NSO Group struggled to present evidence justifying its actions, leading the court to disallow its claim that its spyware was used solely against criminals and terrorists. The notorious Pegasus spyware, responsible for many breaches, was discovered on the phones of several activists and innocent users.
In addition to the punitive damages, the jury ordered NSO to pay $445,000 to cover WhatsApp’s costs for thwarting the cyber attacks. WhatsApp hailed the verdict as pivotal in combatting illegal spyware, emphasising the broader implications for user safety and privacy.
Key Points
- NSO Group has been ordered to pay $167 million in punitive damages for hacking WhatsApp users.
- The lawsuit revealed NSO’s continuous attacks despite WhatsApp’s security patches.
- The jury also awarded $445,000 in compensatory damages to WhatsApp.
- The case highlights significant threats posed by spyware like Pegasus to civil liberties.
- The decision is seen as a strong deterrent against illegal spyware activities targeting American companies.
- Digital freedom advocates view the ruling as transformative for privacy rights.
Why should I read this?
If you’re concerned about digital privacy and the misuse of spyware, this verdict is a big deal. It’s a remarkable win against companies that exploit technology for malicious ends. Understanding this case not only sheds light on the spyware industry but is also essential for anyone wanting to protect their own data and privacy. Plus, we saved you the hassle of trawling through the legal jargon—you’re welcome!