Story perspectives

Spyware Use Grows: 100 Countries Target Critics, Data

4/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

A U.K. intelligence report says most governments access commercial spyware, rising from 80 to 100 countries since 2023.
The spyware can infiltrate devices to steal data, raising concerns about misuse against critics and political opponents.
Richard Horne of the U.K. National Cyber Security Centre says most major U.K. cyberattacks originate abroad.
A leaked toolkit named DarkSword enables unauthorized access to Apple devices, signaling risks and potential widespread harm.

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Story summary

A U.K. intelligence report says most governments access commercial spyware, rising from 80 to 100 countries since 2023.
The spyware can infiltrate devices to steal data, raising concerns about misuse against critics and political opponents.
Richard Horne of the U.K. National Cyber Security Centre says most major U.K. cyberattacks originate abroad.
A leaked toolkit named DarkSword enables unauthorized access to Apple devices, signaling risks and potential widespread harm.