Serbian Authorities Spy on Journalists and Activists

2024-12-16

A Digital Panopticon

Amnesty International has unveiled a disturbing picture of digital surveillance in Serbia, revealing the use of advanced spyware by the Serbian police and intelligence agencies to target journalists and activists. The report highlights the deployment of a novel Android spyware, dubbed NoviSpy, which, in conjunction with phone-cracking technology from Cellebrite, has been used to monitor the digital activities of civil society members.

A Growing Trend of Physical Access Attacks

The increasing difficulty of remotely exploiting devices has led to a shift towards physical access attacks. By seizing and unlocking devices, authorities can install spyware that would otherwise be difficult to deploy. This trend, exemplified by the case of independent journalist Slaviša Milanov, underscores the evolving tactics of digital surveillance.

The Impact of Surveillance

The use of spyware can have severe consequences for individuals and society as a whole. It can lead to intimidation, harassment, and even physical harm. Furthermore, it can stifle dissent and undermine democratic freedoms. In the case of Serbia, the surveillance of journalists and activists can have a chilling effect on freedom of expression and the ability to hold authorities accountable.

What Undercode Says:

Amnesty

It is crucial to raise awareness about the dangers of digital surveillance and to advocate for stronger regulations and safeguards to protect individuals’ privacy and security. Tech companies must also play a role in developing more secure devices and software to mitigate the risks of exploitation.

The international community should pressure the Serbian government to cease its surveillance practices and to respect human rights. By exposing these abuses, Amnesty International has taken an important step in holding the authorities accountable and protecting the rights of journalists and activists in Serbia.