UK intelligence warns governments are using commercial spyware to hack devices

A new British report reveals that more than half of governments now access private spyware tools, widening risks to citizens and businesses. The National Cyber Security Centre will publish detailed findings soon, prompting urgent calls for stricter oversight and clearer export controls.

As mentioned by Techcrunch

According to British intelligence, more than half of the world’s governments have access to commercial spyware software, on which the ability to breach mobile devices and computers to steal sensitive information depends.

The United Kingdom’s National Cyber Security Centre plans to publish its findings in the coming days. The report points to lower barriers to access for such surveillance technologies, which could make it easier for foreign governments and hackers to target citizens, companies, and critical infrastructure using spyware.

According to intelligence estimates, the number of countries with access to this type of tools has risen to 100, up from 80 in 2023.

Commercial spyware software developed by private companies, such as Pegasus from NSO Group and Graphite from Paragon, typically relies on exploiting vulnerabilities in the software of mobile phones and computers to infiltrate devices and steal data. Governments say that spying is used only against those suspected of crimes or terrorism, however cybersecurity experts and human rights advocates warn that such technologies could be used against critics, journalists, and opposition figures.

According to intelligence, targets and objectives have broadened over time and now include bankers and wealthy businessmen.

Richard Horn, who heads the United Kingdom’s National Cyber Security Centre, in a speech at the CYBERUK conference in Glasgow noted that most nationally significant cyberattacks originate from foreign adversaries rather than criminal cyber gangs.

Countries continue to record incidents related to Chinese influence: cyber espionage, surveillance of public figures, and preparations for possible destabilizing disruptions that could slow the West’s response to a potential escalation of tensions with China.

The risks of private spyware are not limited to government actions: tools such as DarkSword have emerged, containing exploits to break into modern iPhone and iPad devices. Such solutions enable the creation of websites capable of targeting Apple users who have not yet updated to the latest software versions.

Leaks of tools show that even well-guarded government-developed technologies can slip out of control and pose risks to millions of users worldwide through malicious attacks.

In the context of growing threats, the anticipated role of private spyware in the future requires strengthened oversight, clearer regulation, and responsible usage practices by governments and private companies.

– British intelligence

In general, the topic underscores the risks of private spyware in the hands of various actors: from governments to criminal groups, and how this affects the safety and privacy of people around the world.

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