Israel-based NSO Group, a maker of Pegasus spyware, stated on Sunday that its CEO would be stepping down as part of an organizational restructuring.
The privately owned, indebted company also said that NATO member countries will be the focus of their sales efforts.
Journalists from around the world conducted an international investigation in July of last year, and they discovered that NSO had marketed Pegasus spyware to governments all around the world for use against journalists, politicians, and anybody else who supports human rights.
“NSO Group confirmed today that the company will reorganize and CEO Shalev Hulio will step down,” read a statement from a corporate spokesman.
The spokeswoman said that Yaron Shohat, the company’s chief operating officer, will now “take the lead” and manage the restructuring procedure.
The reorganization will “examine all aspects of its business, including streamlining its operations to ensure NSO remains one of the world’s leading high-tech cyber intelligence companies, focusing on NATO-member countries,” referring to the 30-member North Atlantic Treaty Organization political and military alliance.
Pegasus spyware can be installed on mobile devices to steal data or activate cameras and microphones.
Sales of the software, according to NSO Group, are restricted to government organizations that seek to target terrorists and criminals and are subject to Israeli government approval. The company claims that the software has helped security officials in various countries stop crimes and attacks. Additionally, it has emphasized that it has no control over how its customers use Pegasus and that it has received permission from the Israeli defense ministry to conduct its worldwide sales.
