What is Pegasus spyware? 10 basic facts about 'snooping' row & the surveillance software involved

In 2019, WhatsApp had said that Indian journalists and human rights activists were among those globally spied upon by unnamed entities using Pegasus.

WHAT IS IT: A spyware is malicious software designed to hack devices such as computers or smartphones in order to gather data serve it to a third party without consent. 

The highly advanced 'Pegasus' was created by Israeli-based cyber intelligence firm NSO Group.

NSO Group claims their motive is to 'develops best-in-class technology to help government agencies detect and prevent terrorism and crime.'

In 2019, WhatsApp had said that Indian journalists and human rights activists were among those globally spied upon by unnamed entities using Pegasus spyware.

HOW IS WORKS: The hackers were able to install the malware in users' phones, including iPhones and Android devices, through loopholes with just a missed call, without leaving any trace on the gadget.

According to multiple media reports, users are unlikely to notice Pegasus infiltrating their device.

Apart from data theft, Pegasus is potent enough to clear information from the host device including clearing caller logs, calendar events etc - making certain that particular data is snatched away from the target person.