Apple wins first battle against NSO Group, creators of Pegasus

More than two years after filing the lawsuit against NSO Group, Manzana He sees that the prospects are beginning to tilt in his favor. According to 9to5MacCupertino residents won their first battle against the company that developed Pegasusspyware that has caused all sorts of scandals in governments around the world.

Before we continue, let’s remember what happened. NSO Group took advantage of a vulnerability in the iPhone to launch Pegasus and spy on Apple terminal users. The company led by Tim Cook certainly did not remain with its arms crossed.

In November 2021, Apple sued NSO Group in the United States. He accused them of creating illegal software that violates the privacy of its platform. Although the number of affected users was small, this did not stop Apple from launching this crusade. The ultimate goal, of course, was to ban the program and force the NSO to pay for its actions.

“While these cybersecurity threats only affect a very small number of our customers, we take any attacks on our users very seriously and are constantly working to strengthen security and privacy protections in iOS to ensure the safety of all our users,” commented Craig Federighi. Apple Vice President of Software Engineering.

The manager also raised his voice, saying that companies like NSO make millions of dollars through marketing tools that facilitate criminal activity without accountability, and this situation must end as soon as possible.

However, the trial was complicated because NSO Group tried to move the battle with Apple to Israel, the country where he resides. Perhaps in the hope of getting help from local authorities and leaving the residents of the neighborhood at a disadvantage. Apple clearly didn’t like this move.

The trial remains in the US, a victory for Apple

However, today the judge ruled that NSO cannot evade its legal obligations in North America.. Thus, Israel will not be condemned.

“Witnesses and evidence are likely to be found here and abroad in fairly equal proportions, and one side or the other will face some challenges. The NSO has not demonstrated otherwise,” the judge determined.

Another point why this process will continue in the United States is that NSO Group would be violating a couple of California laws. Specifically, the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act and the Unfair Competition Act.

What’s next? Next The 14th of February, NSO Group must appear before the relevant authorities and answer the charges. However, it is obvious that the matter is not in their favor. Apple has prepared a pretty solid lawsuit, and its chances of success are higher.

If Apple wins this dispute against NSO Group, it could set a precedent. Any company that is willing to compromise its devices to spy on users will have to face justice.

An Apple spokesperson told the aforementioned media outlets that they will continue to make efforts to prevent programs like Pegasus from violating user privacy. As an example, they cite an offer launched at the end of 2021 that allows users to be notified who may have been infected with specified viruses. spyware.