Serbia Accused of Using Spyware on Journalists

Amnesty International's report reveals that Serbian authorities have installed spyware on the phones of journalists and activists, utilizing advanced tools like Cellebrite and a new, home-grown software called NoviSpy. Forensic evidence indicates that police often installed this spyware during interrogations or informal detentions, allowing them to extract sensitive data and control device features remotely. Notably, the case of journalist Slaviša Milanov highlights the misuse of Cellebrite technology to unlock and compromise his phone without consent. The report emphasizes the systematic targeting of civil society members and calls for accountability from both the Serbian government and Cellebrite, which faces scrutiny for its technology's misuse. NoviSpy, in particular, has been linked to Serbia's intelligence agency, further raising concerns about privacy violations. As these practices come to light, the need for stricter regulations and protections for journalists and activists in Serbia has become increasingly urgent.