NSO Group Founder Urges Governments to Build 'Sovereign AI'
The creator of Pegasus argues that nations must take control of their digital infrastructure.
New Security Challenges and AI
Shalev Hulio, co-founder of NSO Group and the architect of the Pegasus spyware, has shifted his focus to a new frontier. He is now advising governments to reduce their dependence on American artificial intelligence companies, urging them to prioritize the development of their own "sovereign AI." According to Hulio, AI has become a critical component of national infrastructure, and states should not risk the possibility of a private company cutting off their access to these essential services.
Dream: A New Cybersecurity Platform
Following his time at NSO Group, Hulio co-founded a company called Dream alongside former Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz. The organization provides governments with AI-driven cybersecurity tools designed to protect national security from external interference. Dream’s portfolio includes systems that identify software vulnerabilities and platforms that assist governments in building their own independent AI models.
Why 'Sovereign AI' Matters
Dream’s approach focuses on creating highly specialized, efficient models trained on a specific nation's own data. Hulio notes that such systems do not require massive computing resources and can be run using only a few graphics processing units (GPUs). This strategy not only ensures data privacy but also significantly reduces costs. The company has already secured $400 million in investment, reaching a market valuation of $3 billion, with its services currently used by over ten countries across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Past and Reality
Hulio’s call for technological independence carries a complex weight given his history. The NSO Group’s Pegasus software was the subject of years of criticism regarding the illegal surveillance of journalists and politicians. Hulio maintains that his products helped governments prevent terrorist attacks and save hundreds of thousands of lives. Despite past controversies, the current geopolitical climate—where cyberattacks are becoming increasingly autonomous and large-scale—has made the desire for states to control their own digital infrastructure more pressing than ever.
For countries like Georgia, which are actively working to develop digital state services, the issue of technological independence is becoming increasingly relevant. Ensuring cybersecurity and protecting one's data from external influence is a cornerstone of national security for any modern state.