Israel surveillance exports to survive Pegasus scandal

Significance

The scandal exposed by the 'Pegasus Project' investigation has spotlighted Israel’s leveraging of capabilities in digital surveillance and other security-related technology to develop defence and commercial ties with many countries. Alleged abuses by foreign governments of the Pegasus spyware -- developed and sold by the Israeli company NSO Group -- has raised concerns about the threat to privacy and human rights from such surveillance.

Impacts

• The publicity surrounding the Pegasus spyware may enhance its standing with many potential clients impressed by its technological prowess.
• Israel, long criticised for its Palestinian policy, will suffer more harm to its image for allowing spyware exports to problematic states.
• The negative publicity will impede NSO from going public and raising private capital.