DHS Confirms No Current Relationship Between ICE and Paragon Solutions Spyware

DHS Confirms No Current Relationship Between ICE and Paragon Solutions Spyware

First seen 23 May 2026, 21:34 UTC IjprNprwww.ap.orgThevergecitizenlab.ca+1 93% similarity 39.0

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The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has no active contract with Paragon Solutions, a spyware manufacturer known for its Graphite tool. This statement follows concerns raised after ICE reactivated a paused contract with Paragon in 2024, which was put on hold due to compliance checks with a 2023 executive order restricting federal agencies from acquiring commercial spyware that poses security risks. Paragon's Graphite tool has been implicated in a spying scandal in Italy, where it targeted journalists and activists. The contract with Paragon was reportedly closed out on January 20, 2026. Despite DHS's assurances, it remains unclear if ICE retains access to Paragon's tools through third parties. The situation has drawn scrutiny from lawmakers regarding the use of commercial spyware by federal agencies.

Key Points: • DHS confirmed ICE has no current contract with spyware maker Paragon Solutions. • Paragon's Graphite tool was involved in a spying scandal affecting journalists in Italy. • ICE's contract with Paragon was closed out on January 20, 2026, amid compliance concerns.

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Timeline

2023-01-01
Executive order issued
A 2023 executive order was enacted to prevent federal agencies from acquiring risky commercial spyware.
NPR
2024-01-01
ICE enters contract with Paragon Solutions
ICE began a contract with Paragon Solutions for an unspecified product, later paused for compliance review.
NPR
2025-01-01
Graphite tool scandal revealed
Reports emerged that Paragon's Graphite tool targeted journalists and activists in Italy, confirmed by researchers.
NPR
2026-01-20
Paragon Solutions contract closed
DHS confirmed that ICE's contract with Paragon Solutions was officially closed out.
NPR
2026-05-22
DHS statement released
DHS publicly stated that ICE has no relationship with Paragon Solutions, clarifying the agency's current status.
NPR

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