NSO Group Challenges $167M WhatsApp Spyware Verdict
In May 2025, a U.S. jury ordered NSO Group to pay $167 million in damages to WhatsApp for a 2019 hacking campaign that targeted over 1,400 users with its Pegasus spyware. Now, the controversial surveillance firm is fighting back, calling the ruling “outrageous” and demanding a retrial.
Key Developments:
- Legal Motion Filed: NSO Group submitted a court filing requesting either a new trial or a remittitur (a reduction of the damages).
- Arguments Against the Verdict:
- Claims the punitive damages are “unconstitutionally excessive” and violate legal limits (compensatory damages were only $444,719).
- Alleges the jury aimed to “bankrupt NSO” due to hostility toward its business model.
- States the amount “grossly exceeds NSO’s ability to pay.”
WhatsApp’s Response
WhatsApp spokesperson Margarita Franklin dismissed NSO’s motion as another evasion tactic:
“This is an expected attempt to claim impunity after a U.S. jury clearly punished NSO for illegally attacking an American company and its users. We’ll continue pursuing a permanent injunction to block future attacks.”
Broader Context
- Financial Struggles: During the trial, NSO admitted to being in dire financial straits, raising questions about its capacity to pay.
- Legal Precedent: The case sets a landmark example for holding spyware firms accountable for cyber intrusions.
How to Report Spyware Activity
Journalist Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai investigates spyware companies. Contact securely via:
- Signal: +1 917 257 1382
- Telegram/Keybase: @lorenzofb
- Email: [email protected]
For further details, see reports by Law360 and MLex.
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