More than 100 governments globally now have access to commercial spyware capable of hacking phones and computers, according to findings by the National Cyber Security Centre. The number has risen from 80 countries in 2023, highlighting how quickly such surveillance tools are spreading.
The agency is set to present its findings, noting that the barrier to accessing these technologies has significantly lowered. This increases the risk for individuals, businesses, and critical infrastructure, as both governments and cybercriminals gain easier access to advanced hacking tools.
Commercial spyware, developed by firms such as NSO Group and Paragon, uses software vulnerabilities to infiltrate devices and extract sensitive data. While governments claim these tools are used for law enforcement and counterterrorism, experts have raised concerns about misuse against journalists, critics, and political opponents.
U.K. intelligence has also observed that targets are expanding beyond traditional profiles to include bankers and wealthy business leaders, indicating a broader threat landscape.
Richard Horne, head of the National Cyber Security Centre, warned that organisations are underestimating the scale of current cyber threats. He noted that most major cyberattacks affecting the U.K. originate from foreign state actors rather than independent cybercriminal groups.
The report also highlights ongoing cyber activity linked to China, including attempts to access sensitive data, monitor high-profile individuals, and prepare for potential disruptive cyber operations.
Beyond state actors, cybercriminal access to these tools is also increasing. A recent leak of a hacking toolkit known as DarkSword demonstrated how advanced exploits can spread beyond controlled environments. The toolkit included capabilities to target modern Apple devices, allowing attackers to exploit users who had not updated their software.
The incident underscores a growing concern: even tightly controlled cyber tools can leak and proliferate, exposing millions of users to potential attacks.
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