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Italian businessman’s phone reportedly targeted with Paragon spyware
Francesco Gaetano Caltagirone, an Italian businessman, was reportedly targeted with Paragon spyware, becoming the first businessman in Italy identified as a victim among around 90 individuals. The incident raises concerns regarding the misuse of spyware, following previous incidents involving journalists and activists. Paragon, an Israeli firm, recently severed ties with the Italian government amid the growing controversy.
Key points
- Francesco Gaetano Caltagirone was targeted with Paragon spyware according to IrpiMedia and La Stampa.
- Caltagirone is the first businessman in Italy publicly named as a Paragon victim, expanding the list from journalists and activists.
- Paragon Solutions, the spyware maker, previously claimed to operate ethically and had contracts with Italian intelligence.
- Following the identity of journalists as victims, Paragon distanced itself from the Italian government.
- Paragon was acquired by AE Industrial in December 2024 and is merging with REDLattice, a cybersecurity firm.
- WhatsApp notified approximately 90 individuals, including Caltagirone, about potential spyware targeting.
Why it matters
- This incident highlights the ongoing global concerns about spyware targeting private and public figures, reflecting broader cybersecurity issues.
- In 2025, there is a growing trend towards increased regulation and scrutiny of spyware and surveillance technology in response to privacy violations.
- Previously, the targeting of activists and journalists raised alarms over press freedom in Italy and other countries, indicating a pattern of suppression.
Caltagirone's targeting marks a significant escalation in the Paragon spyware scandal, demonstrating the potential risks faced by private sector individuals in an increasingly surveilled world, and emphasizes the crucial need for clearer regulations on spyware.