A European Parliament member investigating allegations of spyware use against EU citizens has been hacked with the notorious Pegasus software, raising serious concerns about the security of high-profile targets and the potential for espionage on a massive scale. The development has sparked an immediate outcry from human rights groups and cybersecurity experts alike.
The European Parliament’s Special Committee on Foreign Interference in all Democratic Processes in the European Union was established to probe claims that governments and corporations are using spyware like Pegasus to snoop on EU citizens, including politicians and journalists. One of its members, a parliamentarian from a major EU country, has now fallen victim to the very same software being investigated.
Pegasus is a sophisticated malware developed by Israeli-based NSO Group that can bypass even the most advanced security measures and extract sensitive data from targets’ devices without their knowledge or consent. The spyware uses a technique called “zero-click” exploits, which allows it to infect a device with just a single malicious message sent via messaging apps like WhatsApp or Signal.
The hacking of this parliamentarian’s device has sparked fears that the Pegasus software is being used for more than just surveillance – it could be facilitating full-blown cyber espionage on high-profile targets. The incident also raises questions about the adequacy of security measures in place to protect EU officials and citizens from such threats.
This latest development comes as AI-powered tools are increasingly being employed by cybersecurity researchers to uncover previously unknown software vulnerabilities, often referred to as zero-day exploits. While these innovations have revolutionized the way we detect and respond to cyber threats, they also highlight the cat-and-mouse game between security experts and malicious actors like those behind Pegasus.
The hacking of this parliamentarian’s device serves as a stark reminder that even the most advanced security measures can be compromised by sophisticated malware like Pegasus. It’s essential for individuals and organizations to stay vigilant and take proactive steps to safeguard themselves against such threats. This includes ensuring all software is up-to-date, using reputable antivirus solutions, and being cautious when engaging with unknown messages or links.
In this fast-paced digital landscape, it’s crucial that we not only develop cutting-edge security tools but also maintain a robust culture of cybersecurity awareness among users. By doing so, we can mitigate the risk of such high-profile hacks and safeguard our collective digital well-being.
Source: The Hacker News — 2026-07-03