Why Is Pegasus In The Spotlight Again And What Makes It So Powerful?

Pegasus can make its way into your phone without even you noticing, and then turn into a surveillance device

Nearly two years after it first came to light that a sophisticated spyware developed by an Israeli firm could take over the control of mobile phones without the knowledge of the owner, the Pegasus scandal has resurfaced and revived a massive political row. Unlike the last time, the scandal has grown in proportion ensnaring heavyweight politicians and influential figures. With names of targets of potential hacking coming out in instalments, here is a quick guide to the case. How Does Pegasus Spyware Get Into Your Phone? Pegasus is said to be so sophisticated that it does not require a mobile phone user to click or open a text or visit a web page to get activated. It works very clandestinely without raising any red flags. The malware, experts believe, has been in circulation at least since 2016. Once it has made its way into your phone, it can turn the device into a 24-hour surveillance system. The malware works on Windows and Mac computers, and also on Android and iOS smartphones. It can be delivered via email, SMS, WhatsApp or using the sophisticated '0-day' vulnerability exploits, which are unknown even to device manufacturers. It can copy texts you send or receive, collect your photos and record your calls.