NSO Group

Company Overview

Snapshot

Founded in December 2009 by Shalev Hulio and Omri Lavie, NSO Group is a cyber security firm with 201–500 employees. The company has raised $1.6M across one funding round from two investors.

Business overview

NSO Group is a cyber security company that develops technology to enable government intelligence and law enforcement agencies to prevent and investigate terrorism and crime. The company provides tools designed to assist official authorities in preventing terrorism, disrupting criminal operations, locating missing persons, and supporting search and rescue efforts. Operating within the Cyber Security sector, NSO Group serves government and public safety markets globally, with products like Pegasus and Fleming.

Strategic signal

In May 2025, NSO Group was ordered by a US jury to pay Meta $167 million in damages over the WhatsApp hack, following a six-year legal battle. This ruling, which the company intends to appeal, highlights the significant legal and financial challenges faced by NSO Group, signaling increased scrutiny and potential operational impact for companies in the surveillance technology sector.

Company Intelligence Q&A

What was the outcome of the lawsuit between Meta and NSO Group regarding the WhatsApp hack?

In May 2025, a US jury ordered NSO Group to pay Meta $167 million in damages for violating WhatsApp's terms of service and for malicious purposes related to the Pegasus spyware. NSO Group has indicated its intention to appeal this decision.

What was the total capital raised by NSO Group?

NSO Group raised a total of $1.6M across one funding round.

What was the reported cost for NSO Group to hack iPhones?

In September 2016, a report indicated that NSO Group charged $650,000 to hack 10 iPhones.

What was a significant leadership change at NSO Group?

In October 2021, NSO Group appointed Isaac Benbenisti as its new CEO.