Italian activist reports spyware while communicating with ICC

An Italian activist has reported a spyware attack while he was sharing sensitive information with the International Criminal Court (ICC). David Yambio, who leads the group Refugees in Libya, said his phone was monitored during his communications about torture victims in Libya. A report from The Citizen Lab confirmed the targeting, noting the attack happened around June 2024. Yambio alerted the ICC after learning about the spyware on his phone. He urged ICC members to check their devices for similar surveillance. The ICC's prosecutor's office declined to comment due to ongoing investigations. This incident raises concerns about potential interference in ICC proceedings. There are fears that a government agency may be using advanced spyware against individuals advocating for torture victims. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is under scrutiny after recent revelations about the government's use of spyware on activists and journalists. The report highlighted that several of Yambio's associates, including friends of Pope Francis, were also targeted by hacking software linked to a company called Paragon Solutions. This software is typically used against serious crimes, such as terrorism. Researchers have not yet identified the specific spyware used against Yambio. Paragon Solutions, previously a contractor for the Italian government, has denied responsibility for spying on journalists and civil society members. The company claims to have suspended its contract with Italy over rule violations. Apple informed Yambio of the possible spyware threat in November. Forensic experts analyzed his phone and confirmed the exploitation of a security flaw. Apple has since addressed this vulnerability in its latest iOS update. Citizen Lab found that other countries, including Australia and Canada, are clients of Paragon. Questions remain regarding the deployment of spyware and the handling of collected information. European lawmakers are calling for stronger regulations to prevent such abuses. They stress the ongoing cycle of denial and lack of justice for victims of spyware surveillance.