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Serbian authorities are reportedly hacking and installing spyware on activists’ phones
A new report by Amnesty International has revealed that the Serbian government is engaging in mass surveillance of civil society members, including journalists and human rights activists. According to the organization’s research, police have been using mobile device hacking tools to break into the devices of these individuals and install Android-based spyware, allowing them to track their activities.
The reported tactics involve detaining activists and journalists on false premises, then seizing their phones under the guise of additional procedures such as drug testing or psychological evaluations. During this time, authorities would allegedly plant a state-developed spyware program known as “Novispy” on the devices.
One account detailed by Amnesty International tells the story of Slaviša Milanov, deputy editor at Serbian news outlet FAR. Milanov and his editor-in-chief were stopped by police while driving, had their phones confiscated, and later noticed changes to their devices when they were returned, including toggled-off data and Wi-Fi connections.
Milanov claims that his Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S device was running additional software upon its return, with authorities having extracted 1.6GB of data without requiring him to give up his password.
The hacking tools allegedly used in these cases are supplied by Israeli company Cellebrite, which has licensed its technology “strictly for lawful use,” requiring a warrant or sanctioned investigation under the terms of its end-user agreement. A spokesperson for the company told 404 Media that Cellebrite is investigating allegations of misuse and will impose sanctions if necessary.
Amnesty International is calling on the Serbian government to cease these surveillance practices, demanding an end to the installation of spyware on devices and holding those responsible for these violations accountable. The organization has also urged Cellebrite and other digital forensic companies to conduct adequate due diligence to prevent their products from being used in a manner that contributes to human rights abuses.
The report raises serious concerns about the erosion of privacy and freedom of expression in Serbia, and serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater transparency and accountability in government activities.
Source: http://www.theverge.com
