The Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) has strongly denied allegations that it used Pegasus spyware to hack the smartphones of activists, academics, and politicians. The claims were brought forward by the human rights group iLaw, which asserted that the spyware had been utilised over the past few years to surveil approximately 35 individuals.

 

Maj. Gen. Winthai Suwari, the ISOC spokesperson, spoke adamantly against the accusations, stating that the organisation respects individual freedoms and has never engaged in such practices. "The ISOC has always adhered to principles of personal liberty and would not breach it as alleged," he declared.

 

The accusations have stirred considerable attention, leading to a petition being filed by iLaw to the House Committee on National Security, Thai Border Affairs, National Strategies & Reforms. This committee, chaired by Move Forward MP Rangsiman Rome, is now expected to summon representatives from relevant government agencies for testimony regarding the iLaw complaint.

 

Rangsiman Rome underscored the severity of the claims. "This is an issue that touches on fundamental rights and the privacy of our citizens. The gravity of such allegations necessitates a thorough investigation," he said.

 

The alleged misuse of Pegasus spyware is said to have been primarily focused on peaceful human rights activities in the southernmost provinces of Yala, Narathiwat, and Pattani. These regions have historically been areas of chronic unrest due to insurgent activities, making them focal points for ISOC's security missions.

 

The spyware, developed by Israel's NSO Group Technologies, has been at the centre of global controversies regarding privacy violations. Critics argue that such technology has been abused for unauthorised surveillance, targeting not just criminals but also activists and politicians.

 

As the investigation unfolds, public attention remains fixed on understanding the balance between national security and individual privacy rights. The outcome may set important precedents for how surveillance technology is regulated in the future.

 

Picture courtesy: notebooksspec

 

-- 2024-07-19

 

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"The ISOC has always adhered to principles of personal liberty and would not breach it as alleged," he declared with his fingers crossed behind his back

If they own the Pegasus software, you can be sure they've tried it out.

3 hours ago, JoePai said:

"The ISOC has always adhered to principles of personal liberty and would not breach it as alleged," he declared with his fingers crossed behind his back