Npr
DHS Confirms No Current Relationship Between ICE and Paragon Solutions Spyware
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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.