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A targeted and disturbing attack
The world of journalism is facing a new and worrying threat: targeted hacker attacks. Recently, Ciro Pellegrino, a well-known journalist at Fanpage, revealed that he was the victim of a spyware attack on his iPhone. This episode is not isolated, but represents a growing trend of surveillance and violation of privacy in the industry.
Pellegrino received a warning directly from Apple, which reported a mercenary spyware attack specifically directed against him. Apple's communication highlighted the seriousness of the situation, emphasizing that the attack could be motivated by his identity or his professional activities.
The context of spyware attacks
Spyware attacks have become an alarming phenomenon, especially for journalists who cover sensitive or controversial topics. These malicious software, such as Graphite, are designed to collect confidential information and monitor the communications of victims. In the case of Pellegrino, it is not clear whether the software used is the same as that used in previous attacks against other Italian journalists and activists, such as in the case of Fanpage director Francesco Cancellato. The growing sophistication of these technologies makes them difficult to detect and defend against, creating a climate of insecurity for those who work in the information sector.
Implications for freedom of the press
Digital surveillance poses a direct threat to press freedom and the safety of journalists. Spyware attacks not only compromise individual privacy, but can also affect investigative work and the ability to report without fear of reprisals. Pellegrino's situation is a wake-up call for the entire industry, highlighting the need for more effective protection measures and greater awareness of the risks associated with the use of technology. It is essential that institutions and journalistic organizations adopt defense strategies to protect their members and ensure free and independent information.