Israeli spyware company NSO CE Shalev Hulio would step down immediately

Israeli spyware company NSO Group said its chief executive, Shalev Hulio, would step down immediately. Chief Operating Officer Yaron Shoaht was appointed to oversee the company’s restructuring efforts ahead of the appointment of a successor.

A source for the company confirmed Sunday that about 100 employees will be laid off as part of the company’s restructuring and Shohat will lead the company until the board appoints a new CEO.

The surveillance company that makes Pegasus software, has been battling legal proceedings after allegations that its tools were used by the government and other agencies to hack into the phones of dissidents, human rights activists and journalists.

The NSO said its technology is designed to help catch terrorists, pedophiles and recalcitrant criminals and sell them to vetted legitimate government customers, even though it keeps its customer list secret.

In a statement, Shohat said about that the company’s products remain highly regarded by governments and law enforcement agencies as its cutting-edge technology and proven capable of assisting these customers in combating criminal and terrorist activities. He added that the NSO will ensure that the company’s pioneering technology is used for legitimate and valuable purposes.