Israeli spyware targets journalists and activists in Jordan. : Analysis

A joint investigation by the Access Now internet advocacy group, the Citizen Lab rights group, and other partners has revealed that over 30 individuals in Jordan, including journalists, lawyers, and activists, had their mobile phones hacked with the Israeli-made Pegasus spyware. The investigation identified at least 35 cases of individuals targeted with the spyware, most of which occurred between 2020 and late 2023. While the report did not directly accuse the Jordanian government of deploying the spyware, it noted that its use coincided with increased repression of citizens’ rights to freedom of expression and assembly. The Jordanian government has not yet commented on the report. Pegasus, known for its ability to control a phone’s microphone, camera, and access documents, gained attention in 2021 when a leak suggested that there were around 50,000 potential victims of the malware worldwide, including dissidents, journalists, and activists. Among those targeted in Jordan were two Human Rights Watch employees, and approximately half of the victims were journalists or media workers. NSO Group, the company behind Pegasus, faces multiple lawsuits but continues to sell its products to governments, claiming it only works with vetted intelligence and law enforcement agencies. However, cybersecurity researchers have documented numerous cases of politically motivated misuse of the spyware around the world. Access Now has called for a complete ban on spyware that enables human rights abuses.

Analysis:
This article reports on a joint investigation conducted by internet advocacy group Access Now, rights group Citizen Lab, and other partners, which found evidence of individuals in Jordan, including journalists, lawyers, and activists, being targeted with the Pegasus spyware. It identified at least 35 cases of individuals being hacked with the spyware, with most instances occurring between 2020 and late 2023. The report does not directly attribute the usage of the spyware to the Jordanian government but highlights its correlation with increased repression of citizens’ freedoms. The Jordanian government has not yet responded to the report. Pegasus is known for its capability to control a phone’s microphone, camera, and access documents. The spyware gained attention in 2021 after leaks identified around 50,000 potential victims worldwide, including dissidents, journalists, and activists. In Jordan, the targets included two Human Rights Watch employees, with approximately half of the victims being journalists or media workers. NSO Group, the developer of Pegasus, is facing several lawsuits but continues to sell its product to governments, asserting that it only works with vetted intelligence and law enforcement agencies. However, researchers have documented instances of politically motivated misuse of the spyware. Access Now has called for a complete ban on spyware facilitating human rights abuses.

Considering the sources involved, Access Now and Citizen Lab are reputable organizations known for their work in internet advocacy and human rights research, respectively. However, the article does not provide any information on the other partners involved in the investigation, which makes it difficult to assess their credibility.

The article presents the facts of the investigation and provides context about the Pegasus spyware. It highlights the correlation between the usage of the spyware and increased repression of citizens’ rights in Jordan, but does not explicitly accuse the Jordanian government. Without direct attribution, the article maintains a cautious tone and avoids making strong conclusions.

The article mentions that NSO Group, the company behind Pegasus, is facing multiple lawsuits but still sells its product to governments, claiming ethical use. It also acknowledges the documented cases of politically motivated misuse of the spyware. This presents a nuanced perspective on the issue.

In terms of potential biases, the article does not overtly favor any particular side. However, the topic of spyware and its potential for human rights abuses is inherently controversial, and different stakeholders may have their own biases and agendas. It would be important to examine additional sources and perspectives to gain a more comprehensive understanding.

The overall impact of this information is that it sheds light on the use of spyware targeting individuals in Jordan, particularly those involved in journalism, law, and activism. It raises concerns about privacy, freedom of expression, and the potential misuse of surveillance technology. The article emphasizes the need for stronger regulations or even a ban on spyware that enables human rights abuses.

Given the prevalence of fake news and misinformation in today’s political landscape, the public’s perception of this information may be influenced by various factors. People’s existing biases, political affiliations, and trust in different sources can shape their interpretation of the facts. Moreover, the lack of direct attribution in the article may leave room for different interpretations and conspiracy theories. It is essential for individuals to critically evaluate sources, cross-reference information, and seek diverse perspectives to develop a well-rounded understanding of the topic.

Source: Aljazeera news: Journalists, activists targeted in Jordan with Israeli-made Pegasus spyware