Graphite spyware used against European reporters, experts warn
Israeli spyware firm Paragon has come under fire after reports confirmed its tool, Graphite, was used in stealth attacks on European journalists.
A new surveillance scandal has emerged in Europe as forensic evidence confirms that an Israeli spyware firm Paragon used its Graphite tool to target journalists through zero-click attacks on iOS devices. The attacks, requiring no user interaction, exposed sensitive communications and location data.
Citizen Lab and reports from Schneier on Security identified the spyware on multiple journalists’ devices on April 29, 2025. The findings mark the first confirmed use of Paragon’s spyware against members of the press, raising alarms over digital privacy and press freedom.
Backed by US investors, Paragon has operated outside of Israel under claims of aiding national security. But its spyware is now at the center of a widening controversy, particularly in Italy, where the government recently ended its contract with the company after two journalists were targeted.
Experts warn that such attacks undermine the confidentiality crucial to journalism and could erode democratic safeguards. Even Apple’s secure devices proved vulnerable, according to Bleeping Computer, highlighting the advanced nature of Graphite.
The incident has sparked calls for tighter international regulation of spyware firms. Without oversight, critics argue, tools meant for fighting crime risk being used to silence dissent and target civil society.
The Paragon case underscores the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and stronger protections in an age of powerful, invisible surveillance tools.
Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!