Spyware Targets Italian Activists and Journalists

Recent reports indicate that activists and journalists in Italy have been targeted with spyware, raising concerns about privacy and freedom of expression. The targeting appears to be linked to criticism of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and the government’s policies regarding migration.

WhatsApp Alerts and the Paragon Solutions Spyware

In February 2025, WhatsApp alerted approximately 90 individuals across two dozen countries that they were likely targeted by a government client using spyware developed by the Israel-based company Paragon Solutions [1]. Among those notified was Luca Casarini, the co-founder of the NGO Mediterranea Saving Humans, a sea rescue charity.

Luca Casarini Targeted

Luca Casarini, a vocal critic of Italy’s handling of migrant rescues and alleged complicity in abuses in Libya, received a spyware alert directly from WhatsApp [3]. Mediterranea Saving Humans has reportedly saved around 2,000 people crossing the Mediterranean to Italy. Casarini shared the alert with Reuters [1].

Pattern of Targeting

Casarini is the most prominent individual to come forward following WhatsApp’s announcement. Other targets include journalist Francesco Cancellato and Sweden-based Libyan activist Husam El Gomati. A common thread among these individuals is their public criticism of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni [3]. The Italian government has not yet commented on whether it is a client of Paragon Solutions.

Paragon Solutions and Government Clients

Like other spyware vendors, Paragon Solutions sells its technology to government agencies, ostensibly for tracking criminals. Still, the apply of such spyware against journalists and activists raises serious concerns about surveillance and its potential to stifle dissent.