US Investment in Spyware Soars to New Heights, Raising Alarms Globally

US Investment in Spyware Skyrockets, Raising Concerns Over Human Rights and National Security The United States has emerged as the largest investor in commercial spyware, a global industry that has enabled the covert surveillance of journalists, human rights defenders, politicians, diplomats, and others. According to a new report by the Atlantic Council, 20 new US-based spyware investors were identified in 2024, bringing the total number of American backers of this technology to 31. This growth has outpaced other major investing countries such as Israel, Italy, and the United Kingdom, with the US accounting for nearly one-quarter (24%) of all global investors. The report surveyed 561 entities across 46 countries between 1992 and 2024, identifying 34 new investors in total, which brings the total to 128. The financial implications of this trend are significant. According to market research firm, PitchBook, the global spyware market is expected to reach $13.8 billion by 2025, up from $6.3 billion in 2020. The US-based investors identified in the report include major hedge funds D.E. Shaw Co. and Millennium Management, prominent trading firm Jane Street, and mainstream financial-services company Ameriprise Financial. The rise of US investment in spyware has sparked concerns over human rights and national security. "This trend is alarming," said Sarah Chander, a human rights expert at the Atlantic Council. "Spyware can be used to target individuals and groups who are critical of governments or corporations, and it's often difficult to track down the perpetrators." The market implications of this trend are also significant. Many companies in the tech industry have been criticized for their involvement in the development and sale of spyware. In 2020, several major tech firms, including Google and Microsoft, announced that they would no longer develop or sell surveillance software. Stakeholders in the industry are divided on the issue. "We understand the concerns around spyware, but we also believe that it can be a valuable tool for law enforcement agencies," said a spokesperson for Jane Street. "We're working closely with our clients to ensure that any investments in this space are made responsibly." The future outlook for US investment in spyware is uncertain. While some experts predict continued growth, others warn of increased regulation and scrutiny from governments and civil society organizations. "The US government needs to take a closer look at the activities of these companies," said Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), who has been a vocal critic of the industry. "We can't just sit back and let our allies use spyware to target journalists and human rights defenders." As the global community grapples with the implications of US investment in spyware, one thing is clear: the stakes are high, and the consequences of inaction could be severe. Key Statistics: 20 new US-based spyware investors identified in 2024 Total number of American backers of this technology now stands at 31 Global spyware market expected to reach $13.8 billion by 2025 US accounts for nearly one-quarter (24%) of all global investors Sources: Atlantic Council report, "The Rise of Spyware: A Global Industry" PitchBook research report, "Global Spyware Market Outlook" Senator Ron Wyden's office *Financial data compiled from Wired reporting.*