NSO Group’s Spyware Barred from WhatsApp Usage
A U.S. federal judge has issued a permanent injunction against the NSO Group, an Israeli cyberintelligence firm, prohibiting the company from targeting users of WhatsApp. This decision follows a legal battle involving Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, that has lasted for six years.
Details of the Legal Ruling
Earlier this year, a jury determined that NSO Group should compensate Meta with over $167 million. This fine was related to a 2019 incident where the firm targeted more than 1,400 WhatsApp users, including journalists and human rights advocates. However, U.S. District Judge Phyllis Hamilton subsequently reduced the penalty.
The judge concluded that there wasn’t sufficient evidence to classify NSO Group’s actions as “particularly egregious.” Consequently, the punitive damages were limited to a ratio of 9 to 1, which brings the final amount down to approximately $4 million.
Impact of the Ruling
Will Cathcart, the head of WhatsApp, praised the ruling, which prevents NSO from ever targeting WhatsApp users globally. He described the decision as a significant step towards accountability for NSO’s actions against civil society members.
Background on NSO Group
- Founded: NSO Group has emerged as a prominent player in the cyberintelligence market.
- Targeted Users: The firm has previously been involved in controversies over its software utilized for surveilling activists.
- Current Status: NSO Group recently announced plans to be acquired by U.S. investors.
This injunction marks a pivotal moment in safeguarding the privacy of WhatsApp users and highlights ongoing tensions surrounding surveillance technology and civil rights.
