Spyware from NSO Group shaping digital surveillance debates
WhatsApp has said it disrupted spear-phishing attempts tied to NSO Group and has asked a US court to hold the spyware firm in contempt for violating a permanent injunction. The attacks targeted fewer than 10 users, mainly in Jordan and Lebanon, and WhatsApp found no evidence the devices were compromised.
Citizen Lab has found that Stelios Kouloglou's iPhone was infected with Pegasus at least three times in 2022–23 while he served on the European Parliament's PEGA committee investigating spyware. Researchers say they have high confidence in the forensic evidence but do not attribute responsibility; the findings have prompted calls in Brussels for stronger limits on spyware.
France and Morocco are expanding security, energy and investment cooperation amid Pegasus spyware allegations. Lecornu’s visit signals a renewed strategic partnership as Paris seeks stability in North Africa and Rabat presses economic and technological collaboration.
Apple has issued threat notifications in 110 countries about mercenary spyware attacks targeting high-profile individuals. The alerts urge recipients to take immediate steps, including enabling Lockdown Mode, updating devices, and seeking specialist help. The advisories come as expert groups note the growing reach and sophistication of government-linked spyware.
Spain's prime minister has said intelligence shows no evidence that Moroccan authorities organised the late‑July mass crossing into Ceuta. He has blamed people‑trafficking networks and online disinformation linked to Russian, Israeli and far‑right accounts. Thousands returned to Morocco but several thousand remain in Ceuta, fuelling protests and calls for faster processing and EU aid.