Poland charges ex-intel chiefs for using Israel’s Pegasus spyware
Al Jazeera
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Poland has filed criminal charges against two former intelligence chiefs for using Israel's Pegasus spyware while in office, potentially endangering sensitive information. The National Prosecutors’ Office accused Piotr P and Maciej Materka of failing to secure required IT security clearance and risking national security by using the advanced surveillance tool. Both officials could face up to three years in prison if convicted.
Pegasus, developed by NSO Group, is a highly sophisticated spyware capable of infiltrating mobile devices covertly. It grants access to personal data, including photos, passwords, and communications, raising concerns about its misuse. Materka denied allegations, asserting that all activities under his leadership followed legal procedures, while Piotr P remains unnamed due to privacy laws but has reportedly denied any wrongdoing.
The case extends beyond the two officials, with former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro facing severe charges, including using funds intended for crime victims to purchase Pegasus. This spyware's potential for political surveillance and targeting journalists or activists has sparked global controversies, highlighting ethical and legal dilemmas in intelligence operations.
This investigation underscores Poland’s growing scrutiny over surveillance practices and raises questions about the appropriate use of such advanced tools. The charges against high-ranking officials signal a broader shift towards
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/25/2026