Paragon Under Investigation for Graphite Spyware Targeting Journalists in Italy

• •Paragon Solutions is implicated in a spyware scandal involving Graphite targeting journalists in Italy.
• •Italian prosecutors have not received a response from Paragon despite a formal information request.
• •The investigation has raised significant public and human rights concerns regarding privacy and surveillance laws.

Paragon Solutions is under scrutiny by Italian prosecutors following allegations that its Graphite spyware was used to target journalists and activists in Italy. WhatsApp and Apple notified several individuals, including approximately 90 people globally, of the spyware intrusions. Victims have filed criminal complaints, prompting an investigation by Italian authorities. Despite promises to assist, Paragon has not responded to a formal request for information sent through Israeli authorities. The company claims the Italian government rejected its offer to help investigate the hacking incidents. The ongoing investigation has drawn attention from human rights organizations and continues to unfold, with evidence being gathered to assess potential violations of surveillance laws. The Italian government denies any wrongdoing in the hacking of journalists Francesco Cancellato and Ciro Pellegrino. Paragon currently holds a contract with U.S. ICE for law enforcement purposes.