An analysis of the controversial Pegasus spyware and its chilling effects on human rights and fundamental freedoms
This report provides a technical description of the Pegasus spyware and analyses the impact it may have on human rights and fundamental freedoms, in particular the right to privacy and freedom of expression. Furthermore, the report underlines the chilling effect that Pegasus spyware has or potentially could have on other human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the right to dignity, freedom of assembly, freedom of religion, and even the physical and psychological integrity of an individual. The report places a special emphasis on the legal instruments and well-established standards that the Council of Europe has at its disposal to uphold fundamental rights and ensure stronger protections against mass or targeted unlawful and unjustified surveillance. It also provides the basic rules of thumb for better protection for individuals.
Abbreviations and shortenings
Introduction
1. Mobile phones surveillance and spyware
How it works
Implications
Tells of infection
2. Impact on the Right to Privacy
3. Impact on the Freedom of Expression
4. Impact on Human Rights Defenders
5. Impact on other Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms
6. Basic rules of thumb for better protection
ANNEX: More about NSO and Pegasus