Paragon Spyware Used to Spy on EU Journalists
A spyware campaign involving technology from Paragon Solutions has been used to spy on journalists across the European Union, as revealed by WhatsApp. The surveillance affected approximately 90 users in over two dozen countries, including several EU nations. Among the targets are Italian journalist Francesco Cancellato and activist Luca Casarini, known for their work in media and humanitarian efforts. Sweden-based Libyan activist Husam El Gomati has also acknowledged being targeted.
WhatsApp discovered the spyware activity and informed the authorities, including Italy’s National Cybersecurity Agency (ACN). The agency contacted WhatsApp and its law firm Advant, confirming that seven Italian mobile phone users were targeted, although their identities remain undisclosed due to privacy concerns. The campaign also extended to other countries, with users identified through their country phone codes.
Paragon Solutions, the company behind the spyware, stated that it sells its technology to the U.S. government and allied nations. Emphasizing its zero-tolerance policy against targeting journalists and civil society figures, Paragon announced it would sever ties with any customer violating its terms. Following these revelations, Paragon has reportedly cut access for customers in Italy.
In response to these developments, the Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has denied any involvement in the targeting of its citizens or journalists. Italy’s ACN and the prime minister’s office have not provided further comments, maintaining their stance of non-involvement in the spyware activities.
