NSO Group asks judge for new trial, calling $167 million in damages ‘outrageous’

In a significant legal turn, NSO Group, the notorious spyware manufacturer, has filed a motion for a new trial following a jury's decision that mandated the company to pay $167 million to WhatsApp. This ruling stemmed from a hacking incident in 2019 that affected over 1,400 individuals. NSO Group has labeled the damages as "outrageous," "blatantly unlawful," and "unconstitutionally excessive," urging the presiding judge to either reduce the amount or initiate a new trial. The motion, which includes a request for remittitur—a legal process to adjust excessive verdicts—was reported by legal platforms Law360 and MLex. In their court documents, NSO Group's attorneys contended that the punitive damages awarded far exceed any lawful limits, claiming the amount is disproportionate compared to the compensatory damages of $444,719. They allege that the jury’s decision reflects an improper intent to bankrupt NSO, driven by animosity towards its business operations beyond the specific actions that warranted punitive damages. Responding to these developments, WhatsApp spokesperson Margarita Franklin emphasized the company's commitment to accountability, stating that NSO has consistently sought to evade responsibility. Franklin reaffirmed WhatsApp's determination to pursue a permanent injunction against NSO, ensuring that the spyware firm cannot target their platform or users in the future. NSO Group, in its filings, maintained that the damage award far surpasses its financial capabilities and represents an unjust punitive approach. The company has previously indicated its precarious financial situation during the trial.