EU Lawmaker Probing Spyware Targeted with Pegasus

A former Member of the European Parliament has been identified as a target of sophisticated spyware attacks using NSO Group's Pegasus malware. Stelios Kouloglou's mobile device was repeatedly compromised while he served on a parliamentary committee investigating the misuse of commercial surveillance technologies within the EU.

The Citizen Lab research group conducted forensic analysis of Kouloglou's device and confirmed evidence of multiple successful infections. The timing of the attacks raises serious concerns about the targeting of officials who are actively working to regulate and investigate surveillance tool abuses.

Surveillance During Investigation

• Kouloglou was serving on the parliament's committee examining commercial surveillance tool misuse when attacks occurred
• Forensic analysis revealed attackers could have accessed all device data including messages, contacts, and location
• Pegasus spyware provides complete device control and can extract data without user knowledge
• The targeting suggests possible retaliation against oversight efforts of surveillance technology
• Citizen Lab's investigation provides technical evidence of the compromise attempts

Implications for Democratic Oversight

• Attack demonstrates risks faced by officials investigating cybersecurity and surveillance matters
• Use of sophisticated spyware against lawmakers threatens democratic oversight processes
• Previous Pegasus targeting has included journalists, activists, and government officials globally
• EU institutions may need enhanced security measures for members handling sensitive investigations
• Incident highlights ongoing challenges in regulating commercial surveillance technology exports

Sources

• European Parliament Member Investigating Spyware Was Hacked With Pegasus