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2w ago

Meta Wins $168 Million Verdict Against NSO Group Over WhatsApp Spyware Breach

A California jury's decision marks a significant step in holding NSO accountable for Pegasus spyware attacks, as the company signals financial distress and plans an appeal.

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Overview

  • A California jury awarded Meta $168 million in damages after ruling NSO Group unlawfully used Pegasus spyware to infiltrate WhatsApp in 2019.
  • The spyware exploited a WhatsApp vulnerability to monitor 1,400 individuals, including journalists and human rights defenders, via a zero-click exploit.
  • Meta welcomed the verdict as a crucial deterrent against the misuse of surveillance tools, while WhatsApp intends to seek a permanent injunction to block future attacks.
  • NSO Group's CEO testified to the company's financial struggles, stating it may not be able to pay the damages, and has announced plans to appeal the decision.
  • The U.S. government blacklisted NSO in 2021 over concerns about its spyware activities, adding to the regulatory and legal pressures facing the company.