The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) is calling on journalists who have been targeted by spyware to confidentially report breaches to the organization. This appeal follows revelations that nearly 100 journalists and civil society members were targeted using Paragon Solutions’ “Graphite” spyware via WhatsApp. WhatsApp disclosed the disruption of this spyware campaign in December 2024 and has since notified affected users.
Francesco Cancellato, an Italian investigative journalist, was among the first to publicly acknowledge receiving a notification from WhatsApp about the breach. Cancellato’s outlet, Fanpage, had previously exposed controversial activities within Italy’s ruling party, raising concerns about the motivations behind the surveillance.
In response to the increasing surveillance of journalists, the IFJ has launched a global campaign to counteract such intrusions. The initiative, part of a broader project led by BBC Media Action and funded by the European Commission, aims to develop tools and educational materials to help journalists protect their data and communications. The IFJ is also working on establishing international policies and guidelines regarding the sale and use of surveillance technologies.
IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger condemned the spying activities, stating that they violate national laws and are designed to intimidate journalists. He emphasized the need for accountability and urged Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, to disclose information about the entities behind these surveillance efforts.
Journalists who have been notified of potential breaches are encouraged to contact the IFJ confidentially. The information gathered will inform the IFJ’s ongoing campaign to protect journalists from surveillance and uphold press freedom worldwide.
This development underscores the growing threat of digital surveillance faced by journalists globally and the urgent need for measures to safeguard their rights and freedoms.
