New York, July 19, 2021 – The Committee to Protect Journalists is closely monitoring the Pegasus Project consortium’s new reporting showing that at least 180 journalists were possible targets of Pegasus spyware. Earlier this year, CPJ launched a campaign highlighting the threats that spyware poses to press freedom, and today reiterated a call for companies and governments to stem the abuse of spyware.
CPJ’s work on this issue includes:
- A policy brief calling on governments to bar the use of spyware on journalists, including banning the export or transfer of surveillance technology or expertise to governments with poor press freedom records
- A map of dozens of incidents in which journalists and those close to them were targeted with spyware since 2011
- Digital safety advice for journalists on how to keep their information safe, and specific guidance on NSO Group’s Pegasus spyware in seven languages
Many countries suspected of spying are notorious for repressing the media, and CPJ reporting shows that some of the journalists targeted, or those connected with them, have faced arrest and physical violence in reprisal for their work.
CPJ experts are available to speak on spyware and press freedom as well as individual cases of journalists targeted, in multiple languages. To schedule an interview, email [email protected].
Media contact:
Bebe Santa-Wood
Communications Associate