What Is Pegasus Spyware and How to Protect Your Devices

Pegasus spyware is nasty stuff that can sneak onto smartphones and steal people’s personal information. It’s a big deal for those who need to keep their data safe, like journalists and activists.

This spyware can get into a phone without the owner’s knowledge. Once it’s in, it can access messages and photos, and even turn on the camera and mic without permission. The phone owner has no idea any of this is happening.

Understanding Pegasus is crucial because it can spy on anyone, even in countries that consider themselves free. It poses a real threat to privacy and safety.

Knowing how Pegasus works and how to protect your device from spyware is essential if you’ve got an iPhone or Android. In this guide, we’ll cover what Pegasus is, how it spreads, and tips on keeping your phone secure. At AstrillVPN, we think everyone should be safe and private online.

What Is Pegasus Spyware?

Pegasus spyware allows someone to spy on your mobile device without your knowledge. Unlike regular malware, it can enter your phone silently, so you may not realize it has been hacked.

Pegasus gives hackers a high level of control. They can access your camera and microphone, read your messages, check your emails, track your location, and listen to your phone calls. It can even bypass encryption by recording information before it is encrypted.

This spyware comes from NSO Group, an Israeli company that claims to sell it only to government agencies for crime-fighting and national security. However, it has been used against journalists and activists who pose no real threat.

Most people will not encounter Pegasus while browsing the web, as it is expensive and usually used for targeted government surveillance. However, its existence raises serious concerns about mobile security and the vulnerability of our devices.

Creator of Pegasus: NSO Group

An Israeli company, NSO Group, founded in 2010, developed Pegasus spyware. NSO Group made headlines for its surveillance tools, with Pegasus being its most famous and controversial product.

NSO Group claims it helps governments fight crime and terrorism. They say Pegasus is not meant for mass surveillance of civilians but is designed to help law enforcement and intelligence agencies track criminals and handle national security threats. However, NSO Group’s claims and the use of Pegasus tell a different story.

How Does Pegasus Spyware Work?

Pegasus spyware is designed to infiltrate smartphones without notice, giving the attacker full access to the device and its contents. What makes Pegasus truly alarming is how it enters a device and what it can do inside. Unlike typical malware, Pegasus does not need user permission, visible alerts, or even a single tap to install. Sometimes, it can infect a phone without the user ever interacting with a suspicious link or message.

Infection Methods: Zero-Click and Social Engineering

Pegasus started by using common methods to spread, like sending malicious links through text messages or emails. Users needed to click on these links to get infected. Over time, however, Pegasus became more advanced.

Now, Pegasus uses zero-click exploits, which allow it to secretly take control of a phone without the user doing anything. Apps like iMessage, WhatsApp, or FaceTime can be targets. A missed call, a hidden message, or a process running in the background is often enough for Pegasus to access the phone. The user usually won’t notice anything different, and the infection can happen in just seconds.

Privilege Escalation and Full Access

Once Pegasus enters a device, it takes control at the root level. This gives it administrative privileges, allowing it to override security settings and remain undetected. It can access messages, emails, call logs, photos, and videos. It can activate the camera and microphone in real time. It can even read data from encrypted apps like Signal and WhatsApp by capturing it before the encryption is applied.

What’s especially dangerous is that Pegasus is designed to clean up after itself. It can erase its tracks, self-destruct if it detects certain conditions, and leave almost no evidence. This makes it incredibly difficult to detect using standard security tools.

Cloud Sync Exploitation

Another concerning feature is Pegasus’s ability to exploit cloud backups. Even if a device is wiped, if the spyware had access to cloud credentials, it could retrieve data from services like iCloud or Google Drive. This means that a device reset doesn’t always guarantee complete threat removal.

Constant Updates and Evasion

Pegasus is not static. Its developers constantly update it to bypass new security features and exploit recently discovered vulnerabilities. Security patches from Apple and Google help close some doors, but Pegasus adapts quickly. It is constantly evolving to stay ahead of defenses, making it one of the most persistent threats in mobile cybersecurity.

How to Detect Pegasus Spyware

Pegasus spyware is designed to operate in complete silence. It does not alert the user, it does not ask for permissions, and in most cases, it leaves behind no visible signs. That makes it one of the most advanced and dangerous surveillance tools ever developed. However, while Pegasus is difficult to detect, it is not entirely invisible. Some methods and clues can still help reveal its presence, especially if you suspect your device may have been targeted.

Unusual Behavior That May Signal a Compromise

There are no guaranteed symptoms of Pegasus infection, but some users who were targeted reported subtle and unexplained issues with their smartphones. These may include:

• Battery draining faster than usual, even when the phone is not being actively used
  
• The device feels warm or overheats during idle times.
  
• Sudden spikes in mobile data usage with no apparent reason
  
• Apps are crashing frequently, or the phone is rebooting randomly.
  
• Unusual sounds or static during phone calls

Using the Mobile Verification Toolkit

Amnesty International developed a free forensic tool called the Mobile Verification Toolkit. It is designed to scan iPhone and Android backups for known traces of Pegasus spyware and look for suspicious files, processes, or data patterns linked to previous infections.

This tool is not something most casual users will be able to use on their own. It requires technical knowledge and works best when guided by cybersecurity professionals or digital rights organizations. Groups like Citizen Lab and Amnesty Tech have used it in real-world investigations to uncover Pegasus attacks.

If you believe you are at high risk, you can contact these organizations for help or have a trusted IT professional assist you with the process.

Apple’s Threat Notifications

In response to targeted spyware campaigns, Apple began sending threat notifications to users whose devices may have been compromised. These alerts appear directly in the Apple ID section of settings and are also sent through email and iMessage. While Apple does not always name the spyware involved, many warnings have been linked to Pegasus infections.

If you receive a threat notification from Apple, you should take it seriously. Disconnect your device from the internet, avoid using it for sensitive communication, and get professional assistance immediately.

Why Android Detection Is More Challenging

Android devices are more difficult to examine because they retain fewer system logs than iPhones. This makes it harder to perform a full forensic analysis after an attack. Still, a few things may indicate suspicious activity. These include unknown apps that request unnecessary permissions, sudden changes in performance, or signs that the phone has been rooted without your knowledge.

Security professionals recommend regularly checking your device for unauthorized changes and avoiding the installation of apps from untrusted sources.

How to Remove Pegasus Spyware from iPhone

Removing Pegasus spyware from an iPhone is one of the most challenging tasks in mobile cybersecurity. Unlike common malware, Pegasus is designed with advanced evasion and self-destruction features. It hides deep within the system, often leaving no obvious signs behind. If the spyware detects an attempt to expose it, it may automatically delete itself. In many cases, the infected user never realizes their device was compromised.

Still, steps can help reduce the risk, limit damage, or remove the spyware. The effectiveness of these steps depends on how the device was targeted and what version of Pegasus was used.

Update the iPhone to the Latest iOS Version

Apple regularly releases security patches that fix the vulnerabilities used by Pegasus. If your device is running an outdated version of iOS, it may still be exposed. Updating your iPhone immediately can block the spyware from continuing its activity or exploiting new vulnerabilities.

Enable automatic updates and install new updates as soon as they become available. This is one of the most critical steps to protect your device.

Perform a Full Factory Reset

In many known cases, performing a full factory reset has helped remove traces of Pegasus from an iPhone. This process wipes the device entirely and reinstalls a clean version of iOS.

However, it is essential to understand that a factory reset cannot be reversed if Pegasus has already synced data with the attacker’s server or gained access to cloud backups. It can stop the spyware from functioning, but it does not recover previously exposed data.

Also, avoid restoring backups immediately after the reset. Some backups may contain compromised data or system files that could reactivate vulnerabilities. Set up the device as new and reinstall apps manually.

Change All Linked Account Credentials

If Pegasus has been on your device, it may have captured credentials for iCloud, email, messaging apps, or other services. Changing your passwords after resetting the device helps protect compromised accounts.

Use strong, unique passwords for every account and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible. Be cautious of using the same device to reset passwords until you are sure it is no longer infected.

Avoid Using the Same SIM Card

Some versions of Pegasus can link the infection to a phone number or SIM. If you suspect a serious compromise, consider using a different SIM card on the newly reset device. Avoid reactivating the old number until a digital forensic professional resolves the issue.

How to Detect Pegasus Spyware on Android

Detecting Pegasus spyware on an Android device is even more difficult than on an iPhone. While iOS allows for more consistent forensic analysis due to how it stores system logs, Android’s openness and fragmentation across different manufacturers make detection more complex. Pegasus is specifically built to operate silently, without alerting the user, and it uses multiple techniques to hide its presence deep within the system.

However, if you believe your Android phone may have been targeted, some methods still may help uncover signs of infection.

Unusual Device Behavior

Even though Pegasus tries to stay invisible, it sometimes leaves behind subtle traces. Look out for the following signs:

• A noticeable drop in battery life with no change in usage habits
  
• Unexplained spikes in data usage when apps are not running
  
• Overheating during idle periods
  
• Unexpected reboots or slow performance
  
• Microphone or camera activating without user input

Forensic Analysis Using Advanced Tools

Like on iPhone, the Mobile Verification Toolkit developed by Amnesty International can also scan Android devices. However, the Android version of the tool relies on collecting and analyzing more specific data, such as system logs, SMS databases, call records, and diagnostic files. This process is more technical and usually requires command-line tools and a secure environment for analysis.

If you are not a technical user, it is not recommended that you try this on your own. Instead, reach out to cybersecurity researchers, digital rights organizations, or security-focused nonprofits experienced in handling Pegasus investigations. They can use these tools to determine whether your device shows any known signs of compromise.

Check for Unknown Apps or Permissions

Reviewing your apps can help detect suspicious behavior. Go to your phone’s app list and look for anything you forgot to install. Pay attention to system apps that were not pre-installed or that request an unusual number of permissions, especially those related to the camera, microphone, or SMS.

Also, check which apps have access to sensitive permissions. You can do this through the device’s settings under the permissions or privacy section. Any unfamiliar app accessing core functions like location, storage, or call logs should be reviewed carefully.

Use Mobile Security Apps with Caution

Many security apps claim to detect spyware, but very few can identify something as advanced as Pegasus. Traditional antivirus software often fails to detect it because Pegasus is not distributed through typical malware channels. Still, using a reputable mobile security app can help you spot other potential risks or vulnerabilities on your device.

How to Protect Your Device from Pegasus Spyware

Pegasus spyware is not ordinary malware. It is a powerful surveillance tool used in highly targeted operations, often against journalists, activists, political figures, and lawyers. While the average smartphone user may not be a direct target, the growing use of surveillance tools globally means it is essential to take protection seriously.

Here are several practical ways to reduce risk and safeguard your device from Pegasus spyware.

Keep Your Phone Updated

Regular software updates are your first line of defense. Pegasus has often relied on zero-click vulnerabilities that exploit outdated versions of iOS and Android. Device manufacturers constantly release patches that fix these loopholes. Make it a habit to check for updates and install them as soon as they become available.

Limit App Permissions

Many people install apps without reviewing the permissions they ask for. Pegasus abuses access to core phone functions like the microphone, camera, and location. Go through your app permissions manually and revoke access that is not essential. Always ask if the app needs to know your location or read your messages.

Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links

Pegasus can be delivered via SMS, email, or messaging apps via a malicious link. These links may look harmless, but a single tap could silently install spyware. Avoid clicking if you receive messages with unexpected links, especially from unknown senders. When in doubt, verify the sender or simply ignore the message.

Use Encrypted Communication

Using end-to-end encrypted apps like Signal or WhatsApp adds a layer of protection. While Pegasus can still infiltrate these apps once it gains access to the device, encrypted platforms reduce the chances of successful interception before that point. Favor secure platforms for sensitive communication.

Enable Automatic Backups

If your device becomes compromised, having a backup allows you to safely wipe and restore your data. Use encrypted cloud backups, and keep multiple copies if you store sensitive files. Regular backups also give you peace of mind if your phone needs a factory reset due to an infection.

Use a Reliable VPN

A strong VPN like AstrillVPN helps secure your internet connection by encrypting traffic and masking your IP address. While a VPN cannot stop zero-click exploits directly, it reduces exposure to malicious traffic, protects against network-based attacks, and adds a valuable layer of privacy. Especially in high-risk environments, using a VPN is a smart move.

Consider a Mobile Security Audit

If you belong to a group that is more likely to be targeted, such as journalists or political dissidents, it is worth undergoing a professional mobile audit. Cybersecurity organizations and NGOs can help check for signs of compromise, offer secure communication setups, and recommend advanced protection measures.

Avoid Using Jailbroken or Rooted Devices

Jailbreaking or rooting a phone disables many of its built-in security protections. While it may offer more control, it also makes the device more vulnerable to sophisticated spyware. Keep your phone’s default security settings intact unless you fully understand the risks.

Real Case Studies & Notable Incidents

Year	Region	Target Group	Method / Key Details
2025	Serbia	Journalists (BIRN reporters)	Link-based sabotage, forensic confirmation of Pegasus infection
2024	EU (Latvia, Lithuania, etc.)	Exiled journalists and activists	Apple threat notifications confirmed targeting across multiple countries
2024	Jordan	Journalists, lawyers, activists	Large-scale zero-click campaign affecting at least 35 civil society figures
2023	India	High-profile journalists	iMessage zero-click exploit using Pegasus; forensic indicators present
2023	Dominican Republic	Investigative journalist Nuria Piera	Multiple infection events confirmed through forensic analysis

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