ROME - Spyware developed by a U.S.-backed Israeli company has been used to target at least three prominent European journalists, including two editors at an Italian investigative news site, according to new forensic evidence uncovered by digital researchers at Citizen Lab [1][2][3].

The findings have raised questions about the potential involvement of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government in surveillance activities targeting journalists and civil society activists critical of her leadership. This development has sparked concerns about the misuse of commercial spyware in democratic nations [1][2][3].

In response to inquiries from members of parliament, the European Commission stated, 'Any attempts to illegally access data of citizens, including journalists and political opponents, is unacceptable, if confirmed.' The Commission pledged to 'use all the tools at its disposal to ensure the effective application of EU law.' [1][2][3]

Prime Minister Meloni's office has declined to comment on the allegations. However, a prominent member of her Cabinet asserted that Italy had 'rigorously respected' the law and denied any illegal surveillance of journalists by the government [4].

The company behind the spyware, Paragon Solutions, has positioned itself as a responsible player in the mercenary spyware industry and has secured U.S. government contracts. Backed by former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, Paragon was reportedly established to compete with NSO Group, another Israeli firm known for its Pegasus spyware [4].

This incident has reignited debates about the regulation and use of commercial spyware, even within democratic societies. It underscores the ongoing challenges in balancing national security interests with the protection of civil liberties and press freedom [1][2][3].

As investigations continue, the European Union and Italian authorities face mounting pressure to address these allegations and ensure the protection of journalists and citizens from unauthorized surveillance [1][2][3].