WhatsApp, has announced that nearly 100 journalists and activists have been targeted by an Israeli spyware program. The spyware, called Graphite, was allegedly developed by Paragon Solutions, a company founded in Israel and recently acquired by a US investment firm. So how does this software work? Is WhatsApp not secure?

Israeli spyware used to intercept WhatsApp data of 100 journalists and activists

Security experts say the attack was carried out using the “zero-click” method. This means that the targeted individuals may have been infected with spyware without even having to click on any malicious links. A similar method was previously used with the Pegasus spyware, which compromised more than 1,400 devices.

When spyware like Graphite or Pegasus infects a device, it gives its operator full access. This means that messages can be read even on encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal. While WhatsApp says the attack was detected and blocked in December, it’s not clear how long the targeted individuals were at risk.

WhatsApp officials announced that they have informed about 100 users at risk of being attacked. However, they did not share details about who these people were and in which countries they were located. The company announced that it has sent a “cease operations” letter to Paragon Solutions and is considering legal options.

On the other hand, it was recently revealed that Paragon Solutions had recently reached a $2 million settlement with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). In short, spyware like this has become an increasing threat to journalists and activists.

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