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US-Funded Pegasus Spyware in Colombia Suspended
The US government funded the purchase of Pegasus spyware for use in Colombia, but later suspended it due to concerns of misuse.
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United States
International RelationsUs PoliticsInvestigationGovernmentControversyCybersecurityLatin AmericaSpyware
Us GovernmentNso GroupCnnColombian GovernmentEl Tiempo
Gustavo PetroIván DuqueDaniel García Peña
- Why was the use of Pegasus spyware suspended by the US?
- The funding was suspended after US authorities detected potential misuse of the software; neither Colombian President Gustavo Petro nor his predecessor, Iván Duque, were notified of the purchase.
- What was the intended use of Pegasus spyware, and why was it suspended?
- The spyware was intended to be used exclusively against drug cartels in Colombia and Mexico, but suspicions of broader misuse led to the suspension of operations with the Israeli company NSO Group, Pegasus's manufacturer.
- What is the reaction from Colombian officials regarding the revelations?
- Colombian Ambassador to the US, Daniel García-Peña, confirmed the funding and suspension, requesting further information from the US regarding the software's use in Colombia.
- What was the source of funding for the Pegasus spyware purchase in Colombia?
- The United States government funded the purchase of Pegasus spyware for use in Colombia through a bilateral cooperation program that concluded in 2022.
- What is the status of the investigation into the use of Pegasus spyware in Colombia?
- President Petro has commented on the controversy, highlighting the difference between cyberdefense and espionage, while a Colombian investigation into the matter is ongoing.