Paragon Cuts Ties With Italy Over Journalist Hack

Israel-based spyware vendor Paragon has severed ties with the Italian government following a dispute over an investigation into a cyber intrusion involving a journalist’s phone. The company had offered to assist in an audit to determine whether its technology was used in the alleged hack of journalist Francesco Cancellato’s device. However, Italian authorities declined the proposal, prompting Paragon to end its relationship with the country.

The move underscores growing tensions between spyware developers and democratic governments over surveillance practices and accountability. Paragon, which markets its tools to security and intelligence agencies globally, has faced scrutiny amid broader concerns about the misuse of such technologies against journalists, activists and political figures.

The disagreement highlights challenges in ensuring transparency in the use of surveillance tools, particularly when national governments resist third-party oversight. Paragon’s decision to walk away from cooperation with Italy signals a hardening stance by the private sector in disputes over ethical use and control of cyber capabilities.