WhatsApp Accuses Paragon of Spyware Misuse

WhatsApp has accused Israeli spyware company Paragon Solutions of targeting approximately 90 users, including journalists and civil society members, through a zero-click attack involving malicious PDF files. The attack exploited a feature allowing unknown contacts to add users to groups and was detected and disrupted by WhatsApp, which sent a cease-and-desist letter to Paragon. The spyware reportedly enabled unauthorized access to victims' devices, potentially compromising private communications. WhatsApp, in collaboration with Citizen Lab, has notified affected users and emphasized the need for accountability of spyware firms. This incident is part of broader concerns about the misuse of spyware technologies marketed to governments, often under the guise of national security. Paragon Solutions, which denies misuse, has provided no comment on the allegations.