Paragon Spyware Targeted a Second Italian Journalist, Ciro Pellegrino
Published on June 13, 2025
- A new security report unveiled forensic evidence that points to Paragon’s spyware targeting a second European journalist.
- The investigation was triggered by a threat notification on Ciro Pellegrino’s iPhone.
- This revelation raises fresh concerns over the use of advanced surveillance tools against members of the press in Italy.
A second Italian journalist has reportedly been targeted by Paragon spyware, according to a new report released by internet watchdog group Citizen Lab. The journalist, Ciro Pellegrino, works for the Naples-based investigative outlet Fanpage.
Citizen Lab stated that forensic evidence confirms Paragon’s spy software targeted Pellegrino’s iPhone. This follows similar allegations from Fanpage's editor-in-chief, Francesco Cancellato, who earlier received alerts from WhatsApp indicating misuse of the spyware on his device.
The targeted individuals and timing of these reports coincide with Fanpage’s critical coverage of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government, including exposés tying her party’s youth wing to neo-Nazi activity.
The spyware, developed by Paragon (a company based in Israel and owned by a U.S. firm), is designed to infiltrate devices and collect sensitive information. Its discovery on Pellegrino’s device has increased scrutiny on its deployment and the adequacy of Italy’s parliamentary investigation into these allegations.
While the government and Paragon recently ended their partnership, disputes remain over who terminated the relationship, with little resolution offered thus far.
Marking a worrisome trend, an Italian parliamentary panel disclosed that Paragon’s spyware had also been used to surveil migrant rescue activists. However, the panel denied uncovering evidence directly linking the spyware’s misuse to Fanpage journalists.
The incident has fueled calls for additional investigations into spyware misuse in Italy.
Sandro Ruotolo, spokesperson for the opposition Democratic Party, emphasized the need for transparency, stating, "We want to know why two Italian journalists were spied on." Natalia Krapiva of Access Now also criticized the current investigations as inadequate, urging stricter oversight.
Related
Your Weekly Cybersecurity Briefing
Get expert insights on threats, breaches, scams, and security trends — delivered every Saturday.
Most Popular
Your Weekly Cybersecurity Briefing
Get expert insights on threats, breaches, scams, and security trends — delivered every Saturday.
Most Popular