An Israeli spyware firm, Paragon Solutions, has reportedly severed ties with its clients in Italy in light of allegations that its software was used to surveil critical voices opposing the Italian government. This follows claims from WhatsApp that roughly 90 of its users, including journalists and civil society leaders, were targeted across various nations with the spyware in question.
Spyware Firm Cuts Ties with Italian Clients Amid Targeting Allegations
Spyware Firm Cuts Ties with Italian Clients Amid Targeting Allegations
Israeli spyware maker terminates access in Italy following claims of targeting activists and journalists.
The Italian government confirmed on Wednesday that seven WhatsApp users in Italy were targeted, describing this incident as "particularly serious." Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's office swiftly denied involvement and instructed the National Cybersecurity Agency (ACN) to investigate the claims. Paragon Solutions, which primarily serves state bodies, designed its flagship product, Graphite, to allow complete access to target smartphones under the guise of fighting crime.
Reports from The Guardian and Haaretz indicated that Paragon's decision to cease operations with its Italian clients—identified as various governmental agencies, including a law enforcement body—stems from the concerns raised by WhatsApp. The messaging platform had previously announced it disrupted a spyware campaign targeting journalists and civil society members, emphasizing the need for accountability among spyware manufacturers.
While many affected individuals have not been publicly identified, three known targets include investigative journalist Francesco Cancellato, political critic Husam El Gomati, and humanitarian NGO founder Luca Casarini. Italy was informed that individuals targeted had phone numbers originating from multiple European countries.
WhatsApp disclosed that the attacks employed a "zero-click" method, allowing hackers to access devices without any action on the part of the user. As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight remains on the ethical boundaries of surveillance technology and its impact on privacy rights.
Reports from The Guardian and Haaretz indicated that Paragon's decision to cease operations with its Italian clients—identified as various governmental agencies, including a law enforcement body—stems from the concerns raised by WhatsApp. The messaging platform had previously announced it disrupted a spyware campaign targeting journalists and civil society members, emphasizing the need for accountability among spyware manufacturers.
While many affected individuals have not been publicly identified, three known targets include investigative journalist Francesco Cancellato, political critic Husam El Gomati, and humanitarian NGO founder Luca Casarini. Italy was informed that individuals targeted had phone numbers originating from multiple European countries.
WhatsApp disclosed that the attacks employed a "zero-click" method, allowing hackers to access devices without any action on the part of the user. As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight remains on the ethical boundaries of surveillance technology and its impact on privacy rights.
