Apple drops case against NSO Group over threat of cyber security leaks

Apple has decided to voluntarily drop its lawsuit against NSO Group, citing threats to leak critical “threat intelligence” information. This decision reflects the changes in the threat landscape that affect the security of the company and its users.

Apple has filed a motion to voluntarily withdraw its lawsuit against Israeli spyware vendor NSO Group. The case was filed in 2021 following the discovery of the use of the Pegasus tool to track iPhone users. However, Apple explains that going forward with the case could lead to the leak of important information about how to protect users from spyware attacks. In addition, the company noted that its joint efforts with other technology companies and governments have already significantly weakened NSO Group. However, new threats have emerged from other players in the spyware industry.

NSO Group has been hit with lawsuits not only from Apple, but also from Meta (the owner of WhatsApp), which has also filed a complaint over its use of Pegasus to track its users. In response, Israel tried to block the transmission of information about Pegasus, fearing that it would lead to serious diplomatic and security consequences for the country.

Apple decided that the risk of divulging critical anti-spyware information outweighed the benefits of continuing the lawsuit. Meanwhile, other companies, such as Intellexa, continue to build new infrastructure for the development and use of spyware in various countries.