Paragon Spyware Exposed: Italian Journalist’s Phone Hacked with Sophisticated Malware
Italian Prosecutors Uncover Evidence of Coordinated Spyware Attack on Journalist and Activists
A high-profile investigation in Italy has confirmed that a prominent journalist’s mobile phone was compromised using advanced spyware, as part of a suspected coordinated surveillance campaign.
Investigation Findings
The probe, led by Italian prosecutors, found that the phones of journalist Francesco Cancellato, migration activist Giuseppe Caccia, and Luca Casarini were infected with Paragon spyware during a single night in December 2024.
Technical analysis revealed that the infections occurred on December 14, 2024, with investigators noting that the simultaneous attacks suggest a coordinated effort.
Background
Cancellato had previously received a warning in early 2025 that his phone may have been targeted by spyware, along with around 90 other individuals, including journalists and civil society members.
The spyware in question was reportedly developed by Israeli firm Paragon Solutions, which was later acquired by a US-based private equity company.
Investigation and Response
Italian judicial authorities examined a server allegedly used by the country’s intelligence services for surveillance operations, finding evidence of surveillance activities targeting Caccia and Casarini.
However, no official record of any operation targeting Cancellato was discovered, leaving the identity of the perpetrators unclear.
The Italian government has denied any involvement in the alleged hacking, stating that it is cooperating fully with investigators to uncover the facts behind the incident.
Cancellato has publicly expressed his desire for clear answers regarding the case, arguing that over a year has passed since the suspected attack without a satisfactory explanation.
Broader Implications
The investigation suggests that several other individuals in Italy may have been targeted by similar spyware attacks.
Journalist Ciro Pellegrino, who received a notification from Apple warning that his iPhone might have been targeted by spyware, was found to have no conclusive evidence of spyware on his device, contrary to claims by international cybersecurity research groups.
The Italian case is part of a broader wave of spyware controversies across Europe, with similar allegations of surveillance targeting journalists, politicians, and activists emerging in Greece, Hungary, Poland, and Spain.
In a recent high-profile case in Greece, four executives linked to a spyware company were sentenced to eight years in prison for illegal phone tapping and privacy law violations.
Expert Analysis
Experts warn that modern spyware technologies have become increasingly sophisticated, often used for surveillance, espionage, and sensitive information extraction.
As digital surveillance tools continue to evolve, debates over privacy, security, and legal oversight are intensifying among governments, technology companies, and civil rights organizations worldwide.
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