Apple seeks to withdraw legal case against Pegasus spyware creator, here’s why

Apple

Apple has reportedly requested the dismissal of its three-year-old lawsuit against NSO Group, the Israeli company behind the notorious Pegasus spyware. Filed in late 2021, the lawsuit aimed to hold NSO accountable for the alleged misuse of its spyware to target journalists, activists, and other individuals.

According to a report by The Washington Post, Apple’s move to withdraw the case stems from concerns over the potential risks associated with continuing the legal battle. The report suggests that the lengthy legal proceedings could lead to the disclosure of sensitive information. This information, as per the report, might help NSO and other similar groups.

In a recent court filing, the company told the court, “Apple knows and appreciates that this Court would take the utmost care with the sensitive information relevant to this case. But it is also aware that — now more than ever — predator spyware companies, including those not before this Court, will use any means to obtain this information.”

The Pegasus spyware has been a subject of intense scrutiny since its capabilities were first exposed. Designed to infiltrate smartphones and extract data without the user’s knowledge, Pegasus has been linked to numerous instances of unlawful surveillance and human rights abuses. In India, the Opposition has alleged that the ruling government had used Pegasus on politicians, activists and journalists.

When Apple had filed the lawsuit in 2021, it said that to prevent further abuse and harm to its users, the company was also seeking a permanent injunction to ban NSO Group from using any Apple software, services, or devices.

Earlier this year, the NSO Group had urged the court to move the case to its home country Israel or dismiss the case. However, the US District Court rejected the move and denied any claims of dismissal.

Neither Apple nor the NSO Group have made any official comment on the matter.