Court Blocks NSO Group from Targeting WhatsApp
- A U.S. judge permanently banned NSO from hacking WhatsApp and cut damages from $167M to $4M, raising questions about the spyware firm’s future.
Permanent Injunction Halts WhatsApp Exploits
A U.S. federal court has issued a permanent injunction against NSO Group, barring the Israeli spyware firm from targeting Meta’s WhatsApp platform. The ruling, delivered by Judge Phyllis Hamilton, concludes a years-long legal battle over NSO’s alleged surveillance activities. WhatsApp, used by over two billion people globally, has been a frequent target of NSO’s Pegasus spyware. The decision marks a significant legal setback for the company, which has warned that such restrictions could threaten its viability.
While the injunction limits NSO’s operations, the court also granted the company a substantial reduction in punitive damages. Originally set at approximately $167 million, the amount was lowered to $4 million following a jury trial. NSO welcomed the financial relief, stating that the ruling does not extend to its government clients. These customers, according to NSO, will continue using its technology for public safety and counterterrorism purposes.
Meta Applauds Outcome, NSO Plans Next Steps
Meta executives responded positively to the ruling, emphasizing its importance for user protection. Will Cathcart, head of WhatsApp, described the decision as a victory for civil society and digital privacy. NSO, meanwhile, said it would evaluate the judgment and consider its next legal and operational steps. The company maintains that its tools are intended for lawful use by vetted government agencies.
NSO Group was recently acquired by a consortium led by Hollywood producer Robert Simonds, according to TechCrunch. The change in ownership adds another layer of uncertainty to the firm’s future direction. Pegasus, NSO’s flagship product, has faced global scrutiny for its alleged role in surveillance of journalists, activists, and political figures. The court’s decision may influence broader debates around commercial spyware and its regulation.
Pegasus and Global Oversight
Pegasus has been linked to multiple high-profile incidents involving unauthorized surveillance. Investigations by Amnesty International and Citizen Lab have documented its use in dozens of countries, often without judicial oversight. The European Parliament launched an inquiry into Pegasus-related abuses in 2022, highlighting the need for stricter controls. This latest U.S. ruling could serve as a precedent for future legal actions against spyware vendors operating across borders.
