NSO Group Blocked by WhatsApp

WhatsApp Secures Permanent Injunction Against NSO Group

A U.S. federal judge has approved a permanent injunction requested by WhatsApp, a Meta-owned platform. This injunction prevents the Israeli cyberintelligence firm, NSO Group, from targeting the app’s user base.

Reduced Financial Penalty for NSO Group

Concurrently, the judge significantly lowered the financial penalty originally assigned to NSO Group by the court. This adjustment impacts the amount the company is required to pay to Meta.

A jury had previously determined that NSO Group owed Meta over $167 million. This decision stemmed from a 2019 operation that compromised over 1,400 WhatsApp users. Those targeted included journalists and human rights advocates.

Rationale for Penalty Reduction

U.S. District Judge Phyllis Hamilton determined that insufficient evidence existed to classify NSO Group’s actions as “particularly egregious.” Consequently, the punitive damages ratio was limited to 9:1.

This limitation resulted in a reduction of the payment owed to approximately $4 million. The judge’s ruling reflects a careful consideration of the evidence presented.

WhatsApp’s Response to the Ruling

Will Cathcart, Head of WhatsApp, released a statement to Courthouse News Service. He affirmed that the ruling effectively “bans spyware maker NSO from ever targeting WhatsApp and our global users again.”

Cathcart also expressed appreciation for the decision. He highlighted the six years of legal proceedings dedicated to holding NSO Group accountable for its actions against civil society members.

Recent Developments Regarding NSO Group

NSO Group has recently announced its acquisition by investors based in the United States. This change in ownership represents a new chapter for the cyberintelligence company.

Key Takeaway: The injunction provides lasting protection for WhatsApp users, while the reduced fine reflects the court’s assessment of the evidence presented regarding NSO Group’s conduct.