FROM HACKING DEVICES TO HACKING MINDS: PEGASUS AND THE RISE OF CYBER-PSYCHOLOGICAL WARFARE

Abstract

The introduction of fifth-generation hybrid warfare has changed the character of information warfare (IW) to a multi-faceted battle space. In this warfare, cyberspace capabilities and psychological operations work together as an integrated whole. This paper analyzes the convergence of IT and IP operations through the example of Pegasus Spyware. In today's cyber operations are no longer limited to just technical domain and/or espionage but also include cognitive manipulation, behavioral targeting, and social engineering techniques. Through a qualitative case study approach; this research investigates the forensic reports, investigations undertaken regarding Pegasus operations, intelligence assessments, and leaked spear-phishing messages, with an emphasis on thematic analysis to identify patterns of political persuasion, emotional exploitation, cognitive targeting, and use of social engineering found in attacks using Pegasus. It also shows that Pegasus was not simply a cyber-espionage weapon but rather part of a complete cyber-psychological weapon system that is used to manipulate how targets behave in order to achieve greater operational success. The research further concludes that this combination of cyber and psychological operations acts as a force multiplier within the framework of contemporary information warfare.