Introduction
Pegasus spyware, developed by the Israeli firm NSO Group, is one of the most sophisticated cyberweapons in existence. Initially designed for government surveillance, it has been misused to target journalists, activists, politicians, and business executives. One of the most common infection methods is through malicious emails—a tactic known as spear-phishing.
This article explains how Pegasus spyware spreads via email, how to detect an attack, and steps to protect yourself from this invasive threat.
How Pegasus Spyware Spreads Through Email
Pegasus does not require the victim to click a link or download an attachment—in some cases, a zero-click exploit can infect a device just by receiving a message. However, many attacks still rely on phishing emails with malicious links or attachments.
Common Email-Based Pegasus Infection Methods
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Spear-Phishing Emails
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Highly personalized messages impersonating trusted contacts (e.g., colleagues, government agencies).
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Contains malicious links or attachments that silently install Pegasus.
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Zero-Click Exploits via Messaging Apps
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Pegasus can exploit vulnerabilities in iMessage, WhatsApp, or email clients without user interaction.
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A missed call or a “corrupted” email preview can trigger the infection.
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Fake Software Updates
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Emails posing as legitimate updates (e.g., “Urgent iOS Security Patch”) that install spyware.
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Business Email Compromise (BEC) Attacks
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Targets corporate executives with fake invoices or legal documents containing spyware.
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Signs Your Device May Be Infected with Pegasus
Since Pegasus operates stealthily, detecting it can be difficult. Look for these red flags:
✔ Unusual battery drain (spyware runs background processes).
✔ Overheating even when the device is idle.
✔ Strange SMS or email activity (unauthorized outgoing messages).
✔ Unfamiliar apps or processes in device settings.
✔ Increased data usage (spyware exfiltrates data).
Note: Apple and Android have released security updates to block known Pegasus exploits—always keep your OS updated.
How to Protect Yourself from Pegasus Spyware Email Attacks
1. Avoid Suspicious Emails & Links
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Never open attachments from unknown senders.
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Hover over links to check URLs before clicking.
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Verify unexpected emails by contacting the sender through another channel.
2. Enable Advanced Security Features
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Use Apple’s Lockdown Mode (iOS) to block zero-click exploits.
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Disable automatic email previews to prevent exploit triggers.
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Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts.
3. Use Encrypted Communication Tools
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Signal and ProtonMail offer end-to-end encryption.
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Avoid WhatsApp & iMessage for sensitive conversations (known Pegasus targets).
4. Regularly Update Devices & Apps
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Install the latest iOS/Android security patches.
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Update email clients, browsers, and messaging apps.
5. Scan for Spyware
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Amnesty International’s MVT (Mobile Verification Toolkit) can detect Pegasus.
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Malwarebytes & Kaspersky offer mobile spyware scanning.
What to Do If You’re Infected?
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Disconnect from the internet to stop data leakage.
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Factory reset your device (Pegasus can persist in backups).
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Contact cybersecurity experts (e.g., Citizen Lab, Amnesty International).
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Report the attack to your email provider and local authorities.
Conclusion
Pegasus spyware remains a severe threat, especially through targeted email attacks. By staying vigilant with email security, enabling advanced protections, and keeping devices updated, you can reduce the risk of infection. If you suspect an attack, act immediately to secure your data and privacy.
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