San Francisco, California — An American jury has ordered the NSO Group, an Israeli firm known for its controversial spyware, to pay Meta $167.25 million after finding the company liable for hacking 1,400 WhatsApp users. The decision came down on Tuesday in a case that has drawn widespread attention to the dangers of surveillance technology.
The lawsuit, filed by Meta in 2019, was triggered by a discovery from Citizen Lab revealing that NSO’s Pegasus spyware was exploiting a vulnerability in WhatsApp. This allowed the software to infiltrate devices through missed phone calls, enabling unauthorized access to personal data, including photos, messages, and live audio feeds. The attack primarily targeted activists, journalists, and diplomats, heightening concerns over privacy and security in a digital age.
In addition to the substantial financial penalty, the jury awarded Meta $444,719 in compensatory damages. In a statement following the verdict, Meta expressed that this outcome marks a significant milestone in the battle against illegal spyware and sends a clear warning to those in the industry who engage in similar activities. “Today’s result is more than just about compensation; it’s a critical step toward safeguarding individual privacy against pervasive threats,” the company stated.
Looking ahead, Meta plans to seek legal measures that would restrict NSO Group’s ability to target its platforms. The company has also pledged to bolster efforts to support digital rights organizations that focus on defending users against spyware threats.
Gil Lainer, a spokesperson for NSO, responded to the ruling, indicating that the company would review the details of the verdict and consider its options, including the possibility of an appeal. The case raises fundamental questions about the regulation of spyware and its implications for privacy rights globally.
Meta’s legal move against NSO is part of a broader narrative in which major technology firms are increasingly taking a stand against spyware manufacturers. Apple has also initiated legal proceedings against NSO for similar reasons, highlighting the pervasive threat that such surveillance tools pose to users everywhere.
The outcome of this case could have lasting ramifications for both privacy advocates and the cybersecurity landscape, as it challenges a market that has operated with little accountability. The legal precedent set by this ruling may encourage more stringent oversight of surveillance technologies, potentially shaping the future of digital safety for millions.
