Surveillance Tool Exposed: Insight into Pegasus Software, Revealing its Phone-Hacking Spying Capabilities
In the world of cybersecurity, Pegasus has made a name for itself as a sophisticated spyware tool, initially marketed for government agencies to combat terrorism and organized crime [2]. However, its capabilities have raised significant legal and ethical concerns, particularly regarding privacy violations and human rights abuses [1][2].
First reported in 2016, Pegasus was allegedly used to attempt hacking into the iPhone of an Arab human rights activist [1]. The spyware operates by infiltrating a target’s device, often through exploiting vulnerabilities in apps, operating systems, or via user interaction such as clicking a malicious link [1][2].
Once deployed, Pegasus can access and collect a wide range of data, including call logs, contacts, emails, messages (even from end-to-end encrypted platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal), media, browsing history, and location data [1]. It can also activate the device’s microphone and camera, allowing for real-time monitoring of the environment around the device [1].
Collected data is sent to command and control servers operated by the attackers, who may then use the information for tracking, monitoring, or even strategic manipulation [1]. Pegasus is designed to remain stealthy, often avoiding detection by the device user.
Pegasus is a modular malware, installing different modules based on target requirements. For instance, it can intercept messages and calls, retrieve stored data such as photos, videos, location history, and browsing activity, and even remotely activate the device’s camera and microphone for ambient recording [1]. It can also collect information about the device’s contacts and network associations, potentially mapping out personal and professional relationships.
In 2019, Pegasus software became public knowledge when journalists and activists found out their phones were compromised [1]. This revelation led Apple to release an iOS update in response to the alleged Pegasus hacking attempt, patching the vulnerability being targeted [1].
Fast forward to 2025, and Pegasus is again at the centre of a major controversy. Reports suggest a list of phone numbers, including over 40 journalists in India and other public figures like politicians and activists, were potentially targeted for surveillance using Pegasus software [1].
These developments have led researchers from Kaspersky to refer to Pegasus as "total surveillance" software [1]. The controversy involving Pegasus underscores the importance of cybersecurity awareness and the need for robust measures to protect personal information in the digital age.
- Amidst the bustling cybersecurity landscape of India, the subject of Pegasus has ignited a debate, with its alleged use in attempts to surveil Indian journalists and public figures, raising concerns about privacy and human rights.
- In stark contrast to the glamour of Bollywood, Pegasus' history is marked by controversy, as it has been accused of being used to infiltrate devices for gathering personal and sensitive data, including that of India's journalists.
- As Pegasus, a powerful cybersecurity tool, continues to make headlines for all the wrong reasons, it serves as a stark reminder of the need for a robust career in technology, addressing these issues and ensuring the protection of individual privacy and rights in the digital age.
