Private Israeli spyware used to hack cellphones of journalists, activists (washingtonpost.com)

Article summary

The article reportedly discusses the use of private Israeli spyware to hack cellphones of journalists and activists. The spyware is allegedly used by totalitarian regimes to suppress and harm journalists. The hacking firms provide the spyware to these regimes, which can then use it to track and silence journalists. This has led to concerns about the safety of journalists and the role of these hacking firms in enabling human rights abuses.

Main themes

• private spyware
• journalist safety
• government surveillance
• human rights abuses
• legal liability
• technology and security

What commenters say

• Holding the seller of an exploit accountable for its use in a crime is necessary to prevent harm.
• Developers of encryption algorithms should not be held accountable for illegal uses of their algorithms, just as developers of spyware should not be held accountable for the actions of their customers.
• The primary purpose of a product, such as an exploit or encryption algorithm, is irrelevant when considering legal liability for its use.
• Private hacking companies are not being held accountable for their role in enabling human rights abuses because they are protected by their relationships with governments.
• The use of old-school techniques, such as physical smuggling of information, may be more secure than relying on computer technology, but it is impractical and risky for journalists and activists.
• Journalism cannot function without technology, and the use of secure communication methods is essential for journalists to do their jobs safely.
• The Israeli state has the power to regulate the activities of private hacking companies like NSO, but chooses not to do so in order to promote its military-industrial interests.