Mexican Journalist María Teresa Montaño Targeted in Suspected Surveillance and Malware Attacks

Mexican investigative journalist María Teresa Montaño Delgado has reportedly been targeted by possible malware and digital surveillance attacks, prompting press freedom organizations to demand an immediate investigation by Mexican authorities. The allegations were detailed by the Committee to Protect Journalists and republished by the LatAm Journalism Review, both of which warned that the case reflects ongoing dangers faced by journalists investigating corruption and abuse in Mexico.

Montaño, founder and editor of The ObserverMX and recipient of CPJ’s 2023 International Press Freedom Award, said she discovered signs of unauthorized access to her digital devices earlier this year. According to CPJ, she found an unknown device connected to her email account on April 29 and later identified suspicious files on one of her laptops, leading her to believe malicious software may have compromised her equipment.

The journalist is widely known for investigations into corruption, misuse of public funds, and human rights abuses in Estado de México, the state surrounding Mexico City. Montaño has previously reported facing threats, harassment, intimidation, and smear campaigns linked to her investigative work involving government officials and public institutions.

CPJ called on Mexican authorities to conduct a credible investigation into the suspected attacks and ensure Montaño’s safety. Jan-Albert Hootsen, CPJ’s representative in Mexico, described the alleged surveillance as especially alarming given Mexico’s history of illegal spying on journalists and its reputation as one of the deadliest countries in the Western Hemisphere for media workers.

The allegations have also renewed concerns over the use of spyware and digital surveillance technologies against journalists in Mexico. Previous investigations by media organizations and cybersecurity researchers documented cases involving Pegasus spyware and other surveillance tools allegedly used against reporters, activists, and civil society figures.

Mexico remains one of the world’s most dangerous countries for journalists because of violence linked to organized crime, corruption, and weak protections for the press. Investigative reporters covering corruption and criminal networks frequently face death threats, harassment, forced displacement, and digital attacks.

The reported targeting of Montaño has generated renewed debate among press freedom advocates and online observers over the vulnerability of journalists to digital espionage and intimidation. Rights organizations continue urging Mexican authorities to strengthen protections for investigative reporters and ensure accountability in cases involving surveillance and attacks against the media.

Reference –

Mexican journalist Maria Teresa Montaño targeted in possible malware, surveillance attacks

Mexican journalist, IPFA recipient Maria Teresa Montaño targeted in possible malware, surveillance attacks