Meta Wins $167 Million Judgment Against NSO Group

The legal battle dates back to 2019, when Meta first sued the vendor following revelations by Citizen Lab. Investigators discovered a critical vulnerability in WhatsApp that allowed Pegasus to infiltrate devices through a simple phone call, requiring no user interaction. Once installed, the spyware granted attackers full access to encrypted messages, emails, location data, and even the ability to activate microphones and cameras remotely. The targets included activists, diplomats, and journalists.

Beyond the primary award, the jury ordered an additional $444,719 in compensatory damages. Meta celebrated the decision as a deterrent against the broader spyware industry, while pledging to donate the recovered funds to digital rights organizations. The company is now seeking a permanent court order to block NSO from accessing its platforms. Meanwhile, NSO Group spokesperson Gil Lainer stated the firm intends to challenge the ruling, noting they are currently reviewing the verdict to prepare for potential appeals.