Former European Parliament Member Hacked Through Pegasus Spyware, Investigation Reveals

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 Pakistan Times | The Pakistan Times | Islamabad Times

Friday, July 3, 2026


Introduction: What You Will Read in This Article


This article examines the latest report by Citizen Lab, a Canadian research group, revealing that former European Parliament member Stelios Kouloglou was targeted with Pegasus spyware. We explore when the attacks occurred, the possible motives behind them, and how this case is linked to the European Union's PEGA committee investigation into spyware abuse. Additionally, we analyze the growing threats of spyware and their implications for digital privacy and democratic accountability.


Citizen Lab's Latest Report


The University of Toronto-based research group Citizen Lab released a report on Friday stating that Greek journalist and former Member of the European Parliament Stelios Kouloglou's iPhone was infected with Pegasus spyware on at least three occasions during 2022 and 2023, while he was in Athens and Brussels .


According to the report, these attacks occurred while Kouloglou was serving on the PEGA committee, which was investigating the illegal use of Pegasus and other surveillance tools within the European Union . This raises serious concerns that surveillance software is being used not only to target ordinary citizens but also those who are actively investigating the misuse of such technologies.


Background: Pegasus and the PEGA Committee


Pegasus is a spyware developed by Israeli technology company NSO Group. It has been used worldwide to monitor journalists, activists, politicians, and other citizens .


In 2022, the European Parliament established the PEGA committee following revelations that EU member states had used Pegasus to monitor their own citizens. The committee's mandate was to investigate the illegal use of spyware and propose measures to protect citizens' digital rights.


Key Findings of the Investigation


According to Citizen Lab's forensic analysis, the attackers behind the hacking may have gained access to sensitive documents and committee proceedings . Kouloglou received notifications from Apple about possible Pegasus intrusions, but these warnings came months after each incident .


Kouloglou, who did not immediately respond to Al Jazeera's request for comment, had requested the forensic investigation of his phone in May .


A Growing Threat


This case is yet another example of how modern technology is being misused for surveillance against citizens and public officials alike. Organizations like Citizen Lab are playing a crucial role in identifying these threats and defending democracy, human rights, and global security .


Conclusion


The hacking of a former European Parliament member demonstrates how widespread and dangerous spyware has become. When those investigating spyware misuse are themselves targeted, it poses a serious challenge to democratic values and fundamental rights. The international community must take this issue seriously and implement effective measures to protect digital privacy and uphold the rule of law.


Copyright 2026 Pakistan Times. All rights reserved.

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