In March 2019, Nothing2Hide and Africans Rising led a project aimed to assess the threat, gather evidence, and empower the community with essential digital safety practices.
Project Overview
Following a Citizen Lab report, rumors circulated that Pegasus spyware was being used to target high-profile activists and journalists in Togo. This sparked panic within the community, prompting our organizations to take action. Our mission was clear: reduce fear, gather evidence, and equip activists with the tools to protect themselves.
Training in Accra
Due to safety concerns, the training was held in Accra, Ghana. Twenty-one participants, including Togolese activists and journalists, attended the session led by Nothing2Hide trainers. The program covered essential topics such as smartphone security, Pegasus detection, and safe communication practices.
Key Activities
- Device Analysis: We analyzed participants’ smartphones using automated and manual processes to detect Pegasus infections.
- Empowerment: Trainees learned how to avoid infection and what steps to take if their devices were compromised.
- Community Support: We provided resources and trained a local IT specialist to continue supporting the community post-training.
Results and Impact
- Device Replacement: Two severely infected smartphones were replaced with secure devices.
- Evidence Gathering: One compromised phone was brought back to France for further analysis, with potential advocacy actions pending the results.
- Community Empowerment: Participants gained confidence in managing digital threats, reducing the initial panic.
Future Developments
We are exploring further analysis of the compromised phone and planning additional digital safety training in Togo. Our goal is to extend the impact of this mission by collaborating with local partners and providing necessary resources, such as genuine Windows licenses, to enhance digital safety.
Conclusion
The Pegasus Project in Togo was a success, empowering activists with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves against surveillance threats. We remain committed to supporting the community and advocating for digital safety and human rights.
Stay tuned for updates on our ongoing efforts and how you can get involved!