What is Pegasus Spyware?
A sophisticated spyware tool developed by NSO Group that can silently compromise smartphones through zero-click exploits, giving full access to the device.
Pegasus is the most well-known commercial spyware, sold to governments worldwide for surveillance of journalists, activists, and political opponents.
Capabilities
- Full access to all data on the phone
- Real-time microphone and camera activation
- Read encrypted messages (by accessing them after decryption on the device)
- GPS location tracking
- Keystroke logging
- Access to photos, contacts, call logs
How It Infects
- Zero-click exploits: No user interaction needed — a specially crafted iMessage or WhatsApp call is enough
- Spear phishing: Targeted links sent via SMS or email
- Network injection: Redirecting web traffic to exploit pages
Detection
- Amnesty International's MVT (Mobile Verification Toolkit) can detect infection
- Signs include unexpected battery drain, data usage, or device heating
Protection
- Keep devices updated (patches close the exploits Pegasus uses)
- Use Lockdown Mode on iPhone
- Reboot your phone daily (some exploits don't survive reboots)
- High-risk individuals should use a dedicated, frequently-replaced device
Related Terms
Keylogger
Malicious software or hardware that records every keystroke typed on a device, capturing passwords, messages, and sensitive information. Keyloggers can be installed through malware, physical access, or malicious browser extensions.
Malware
Malicious software designed to damage, disrupt, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems. Malware includes viruses, ransomware, spyware, trojans, and worms—each with different infection methods and objectives.
Operational Security
The practice of protecting sensitive information by thinking like an adversary to identify vulnerabilities in your own behavior and communications. OPSEC goes beyond technical tools to address human factors that could expose you.
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