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One year since the Pegasus spyware revelations

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One year since the Pegasus spyware revelations

  • SC will hear case of alleged use of Pegasus spyware software.
  • Last year, 17 journalistic organizations alleged use of spyware by the Union government.

What is Pegasus?

  • Graded as cyberweapon, it can only be sold to authorized government entities as per Israeli law.
  • Indian government has so far neither confirmed nor denied

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What do Indian laws outline?

  • Indian Telegraph Act, 1885: Government can intercept messages in certain conditions.
  • PUCL vs Union of India case: Telephonic conversations are covered by right to privacy, which can be breached only if there are established procedures.
  • K.S. Puttaswamy vs Union of India (2017): SC reiterated need for oversight of surveillance.
  • Section 69 of IT Act, 2000 Facilitates government interception if it is in
  • The interest of sovereignty or integrity of India
  • Defence of India
  • Security of the state
  • Friendly relations with foreign States,
  • Public order and for preventing or investigating any cognisable offence.

Conclusion

  • Use of Pegasus is illegal as it constitutes unauthorised access under Section 66 of IT Act.

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