If you don’t know what spyware is, here is a definition: spyware is any malicious software that allows a bad actor to spy on you. Typical spyware may read your messages or snoop on your Internet activity.
There are many different subsets of spyware. But fortunately, the best spyware removal and spyware scanner tools can neutralize almost all snoopy malware. Here are some common types of spyware:
Unlike most spyware found in the wild, a professional cyber arms company called NSO Group made Pegasus. The company’s founders are former members of an Israeli Intelligence Corps unit and have the expertise to perform intelligence operations.
Many different types of malware, like computer viruses, rely on a click from a user to activate. However, Pegasus employs zero-click techniques, running without any interaction from its target.
An exploit is a type of undiscovered software vulnerability that allows the malware to breach a system. While Apple has released a patch to protect the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac from Pegasus, it was too little too late for many users.
Pegasus has advanced capabilities that leave communication software like Gmail, Facebook, WhatsApp, Telegram, Skype, Viber, and more vulnerable to snooping. Here are some of the ways Pegasus can spy on you.
NSO designed Pegasus to hide from its targets. It will self-destruct upon command or if unable to communicate with command-and-control (C&S).
All types of high-profile people spy on their targets with Pegasus. For example, the British High Court found that UAE ruler Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s agents spied on his ex-wife, assistant, and security team with the malware. Another high-profile target of Pegasus is French President Emmanuel Macron. Even the Mexican drug cartelspied on local journalists with Pegasus. Here is a brief list of countries that may have spied on political rivals, journalists, or activists with the spyware:
These are just six reasons why Pegasus is such dangerous malware. To shield yourself from any spyware, use top cybersecurity software, avoid threat vectors like fraudulent websites and phishing emails, and don’t lend your computer or device to untrustworthy parties that may install malicious software on your system.
