Moroccan Intelligence Insider Exposes Widespread Use of Pegasus Spyware

A former member of Morocco's domestic intelligence service has provided unprecedented insight into how the north African state used hacking software, including Pegasus spyware, to target journalists, human rights defenders, French politicians, and Spanish cabinet ministers and police officers. Pegasus, manufactured by Israel-based NSO Group, allows its operator to access everything on a target's mobile phone, including emails, text messages, and photographs. It can also activate the phone's recorder and camera, turning it into a listening device.

The whistleblower's revelations suggest that Morocco's internal security services deployed the spyware from 2017 against key domestic and foreign targets. This includes targeting journalists and human rights defenders, which raises concerns about the government's respect for civil liberties and human rights. The use of Pegasus spyware by Morocco highlights the growing concern about the proliferation of surveillance technology and its potential misuse by governments around the world.

The NSO Group has faced criticism for selling its spyware to governments with questionable human rights records. Why this matters: The exposure of Morocco's use of Pegasus spyware has significant implications for the country's relations with European nations, particularly France and Spain, which were among the targets. It also underscores the need for greater regulation and oversight of the surveillance technology industry, to prevent the misuse of such powerful tools.

Developers and businesses involved in creating and selling surveillance software must consider the human rights implications of their products. Consumers, meanwhile, must be aware of the potential risks and vulnerabilities associated with such technology. As governments continue to adopt and deploy advanced surveillance tools, open questions remain about the long-term consequences for civil liberties and global security.