Apple Takes Legal Action Against Spyware Firm

  • By David Lukic
  • Published: Dec 16, 2021
  • Last Updated: Mar 18, 2022

 Apple is in the news after suing NSO Group, a state-sponsored spyware organization. Apple is not alone in the ever-growing corporate outcry against NSO Group. The tech giant’s lawsuit is one of several filed against the controversial Israel-based spyware developer.

 

What Happened?

NSO Group allegedly launched targeted attacks against Apple’s users. To be more specific, NSO Group supposedly attacked Apple users’ devices. Apple is now responding with legal action designed to prevent additional harm and abuse of its customers and their products. If the lawsuit is successful, it will obtain a permanent injunction that prevents NSO Group from using Apple services and products.
 
Apple’s lawsuit states NSO Group took advantage of a ForcedEntry exploit for an iOS flaw. NSO Group allegedly used the bug to install Pegasus spyware on devices used by government workers, academicians, political activists, and journalists.
 
An Apple representative stated NSO Group taps into the capital and capabilities of nations states to launch digital attacks. These attacks supposedly obtained unauthorized access to sensitive information, cameras, and even microphones on Apple devices.
 
Apple also claims NSO Group’s actions extend to Android devices. The company’s statement claims ForcedEntry was delivered to Apple users’ devices through Apple IDs that transmit harmful data to the targeted mobile computing devices, allowing for the installation of Pegasus spyware without the user’s knowledge. Apple servers were not in any way compromised during the attacks.

Apple against spyware firmWhy the Lawsuit Matters

Apple’s lawsuit blames NSO Group for the attacks described above, insisting the group is a state-sponsored entity.  However, NSO Group considers itself a private entity that provides government clients with services, including computer software used to enforce laws and gather intelligence.  

Facebook also pursued legal action against NSG Group two years ago, claiming the company’s malware targeted Facebook’s WhatsApp users.  It is also interesting to note Apple’s lawsuit comes on the heels of the addition of NSO Group to the U.S. export blacklist that prevents it from purchasing and using computing components made and sold by businesses based in the United States.

The Response 

NSO Group responded to the lawsuit filed by Apple, stating it is “dismayed” by the legal action.  The company’s statement goes on to detail how it embraces the opportunity to delve into how its products are used by clients.  NSO Group representatives have also stated the company shares American values in common with Apple and other businesses based in the United States.  An Apple spokesperson said that if the lawsuit is successful, the company will donate $10 million and court-approved damages to cyber-surveillance research groups.

 

 

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