Meta's WhatsApp Exposes Major Spyware Attack by Israeli Firm Paragon Solutions

Meta's WhatsApp has accused Israeli spyware company Paragon Solutions of targeting over 90 users, including journalists and civil society representatives, in over two dozen countries. WhatsApp identified the hacking attempt and issued a cease-and-desist letter to Paragon, promising users of its commitment to privacy.  

The hackers utilized a stealthy "zero-click" attack, which meant that victims' machines were compromised even if they did not engage with malicious files. WhatsApp has since shut down the hack and directed affected users to Citizen Lab, a cybersecurity monitor.  

Paragon, which was recently acquired by Florida-based AE Industrial Partners, provides surveillance software to government organizations, saying that its products help combat crime and preserve national security. However, spyware like this has frequently been abused, appearing on the devices of journalists, activists, and even US officials.  

Despite Paragon's assurances of ethical operations, experts believe the commercial spyware sector is prone to abuse. Natalia Krapiva of Access Now noted that Paragon was regarded as a "better" spyware company, but WhatsApp's findings indicate otherwise.  

The increasing usage of spyware has sparked global concern, as private communication remains exposed to unfettered observation. The FBI has yet to comment on the event, but Citizen Lab warns that mercenary spyware is still spreading, compromising privacy and press freedom around the world.

Source : reuters,com