Spyware developed by NSO Group used by governments to surveil targets
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.