Protect devices from invasive spying

After reading the story "Report: 6 Palestinian rights activists hacked by NSO spyware," I felt inspired to respond. This issue is extremely relevant to our 21st century society.

The use of discreet spyware to obtain information about an individual is a violation of common liberties. Privacy should be honored and protected.

In today's era, technology plays a major role in all aspects of life. It allows people to use their freedom of speech to, for example, publicly voice their opinions online, even if it could be interpreted controversially. The article highlights an important right of privacy which can so easily be violated.

It described Palestinian American activists who were hacked by an Israeli hacker-for-hire company. The Fourth Amendment specifically protects against unreasonable searches and provides security both inside our homes and in personal effects.

This constitutional right should apply to outside sources as well. The government should be held accountable for creating an environment which respects personal privacy from domestic and foreign encroachments.

Ubai Aboudi, one of the U.S. citizens affected by the use of spyware says he lost "any sense of safety' through the dehumanizing hack of a phone that is at his side day and night and holds photos of his three children."

The reality is that most of an American's life can be traced through analyzing their cellphone usage. This information and power needs to be guarded to ensure that cellphone data is sheltered against unjustified disclosure.

Alicia Brak

Round Lake