Paragon case: Technical report on bugged phones filed, targeting journalists and activists

The Paragon case enters a crucial phase. In recent days, the technical expertise at the heart of the spyware investigation was delivered to the Rome and Naples prosecutors. The investigations, classified as unrepeatable—a technical term that emphasizes their unique nature and evidentiary importance—were conducted by the Postal Police in conjunction with a panel of university professors specializing in computer forensics.

Who was spied on: Journalists and activists in the crosshairs

Experts examined the phones of seven people, all named as injured parties in the investigation. Among the journalists are Dagospia founder Roberto D'Agostino, Dutch reporter Eva Vlaardingerbroek, and directors Francesco Cancellato and Ciro Pellegrino. Alongside them are three figures with ties to the world of humanitarian activism: Luca Casarini and Giuseppe Caccia of Mediterranea Saving Humans, and Father Mattia Ferrari, chaplain of the same NGO.

The digital “signature” of spyware

The technical core of the investigation lies in the search for a digital fingerprint: a unique alphanumeric code that can definitively link the use of Paragon spyware on the analyzed devices. Identifying this signature would provide concrete proof that the seven people's phones were indeed compromised, and would be crucial for the prosecution.

The crimes charged and the investigation against unknown persons

Prosecutors are currently investigating persons unknown. The case includes a series of serious crimes: unauthorized access to computer systems and the offenses set forth in Article 617 of the Criminal Code, which punishes the unlawful interception of telephone communications and the unauthorized installation of surveillance equipment. This regulatory framework outlines scenarios of systematic and organized espionage.

The heads of the secret services heard as witnesses

As part of the investigation, magistrates interviewed top Italian intelligence officials. They heard from Giovanni Caravelli, director of the AISE (Agency for External Security), and Bruno Valensise, director of the AISI (Agency for Internal Security). Their testimony confirms the extent to which the investigation is navigating highly sensitive territory, bridging journalism, activism, and the state apparatus.