This year, Serbian authorities used Cellebrite to hack into the phones of a journalist and an activist, planting spyware for further surveillance. Amnesty International’s report reveals this disturbing use of technology.
### A brief history of early spyware
Twenty years ago, government spyware required physical access to a target’s device. Spyware pioneers like Hacking Team used USB keys or CDs to install spyware, a technique that is resurfacing in today’s surveillance landscape.
### Stop and search
In Serbia, journalist Slaviša Milanov and activist Nikola Ristić fell victim to police surveillance. Milanov’s phone was hacked during a routine traffic stop, leading to the discovery of spyware installed without his consent.
### Spyware likely “widely” used on civil society
Amnesty’s analysis points to Serbian intelligence as the developer of NoviSpy, a spyware infecting mobile devices during arrests or detentions. The spyware’s connection to Serbian authorities raises concerns about widespread surveillance practices.
As technology evolves, so do the risks of privacy invasion. Stay informed and vigilant about the potential threats lurking in the digital realm.
