Concerns About Pegasus Spyware in Japan
Members from the Pirate Party Japan informed us about a campaign they have against Pegasus Spyware in their country that they would like to share. On February 13, 2025, a member of the party made a statement at a study group at the Japanese House of Councilors on this issue, an image of the discussion in Japanese is shown below. Speakers shared concerns about illegal monitoring through Pegasus. They said it is dangerous if private data is collected without permission. They also explained how they have reported suspected cases to the local police. According to some accounts, the police are not taking strong action.
Pegasus is a spyware that can secretly collect data from smartphones. In Japan, there is suspicion that Pegasus is being tested on regular citizens’ phones. They fear it is part of an “Active Cyber Defense” (ACD) effort. ACD is a plan to protect the country from cyber threats, but the technology might be being used without proper warrants.
Some citizens contend there are also secret groups that are not affiliated with government that are also watching citizens by means of Pegasus. It is not fully clear who they are. It is also not confirmed if they truly use Pegasus or if they are working with officials. Still, many Japanese citizens are concerned about the situation and the potential misuse of this technology, not to mention the unwarranted invasions of privacy.
The Pirate Party of Japan wants the global public to know about their concerns. They warn that a society with widespread spyware is dangerous. They believe government might also justify surveillance within laws in the name of national security, which further seek to monitor citizens unnecessarily. Such actions would threaten our personal freedom and privacy! They stress the importance of transparent laws and protective legal systems.
Pegasus is not only a Japanese issue. News sources have reported that many countries use it. It can breach phones and gather private information. International organizations, including human rights groups, worry about abuses.
In the meantime, we urge the Pirate community to be vigilant. Protect your devices with strong passwords. Avoid suspicious links. Use a VPN. Contact your government representatives or police if you feel that there is surveillance on your device. International awareness of these concerns will help us ensure privacy and security for all.
