Serbian Authorities Hacking Activists' Phones Using Spyware

Amnesty International Report Warns of Surveillance Practices in Serbia

Recent research from Amnesty International has revealed concerning practices by Serbian law enforcement, who are reportedly using sophisticated mobile device hacking tools to target activists and journalists. The state employs technology created by the Israeli firm Cellebrite, which markets products designed for law enforcement to access devices for forensic investigations.

Call for Action Against Invasive Surveillance

Amnesty International is urging the Serbian government to cease these highly invasive practices. Their report emphasizes:

• Authorities must immediately stop utilizing intense surveillance technologies.
• Victims of unlawful surveillance should be provided effective remedies.
• Accountability measures should be in place for those responsible for these human rights violations.

The organization also stresses that Cellebrite and similar digital forensic firms must perform due diligence to ensure their products are not exploited in contravention of human rights standards.

Surveillance Tactics Uncovered

Amnesty's findings detail multiple instances where Serbian authorities have illegally accessed phones of civil society members. These individuals often faced extended detentions under various accusations, during which additional protocols such as drug testing and psychological evaluations prolonged their detainment, allowing police further access to their devices. In these situations, a spyware program identified as Novispy, allegedly developed by the state, was reportedly installed on their phones.

One significant account highlighted by 404 Media involves a case with Slaviša Milanov, the deputy editor of Serbian news outlet FAR. Milanov and his editor-in-chief were stopped and detained by authorities who confiscated their phones. Upon recovery, they discovered unexpected modifications, such as disabled data and Wi-Fi settings, alongside high battery usage from unidentified apps.

Alarming Evidence of Data Extraction

Milanov recounted that after retrieving his Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S, it was apparent that additional software had been installed. Furthermore, authorities managed to extract approximately 1.6GB of data without obtaining his password.

Response from Cellebrite

In a response to the allegations, Victor Cooper, senior director at Cellebrite stated that their products are strictly licensed for lawful application, which necessitates a warrant or a legally permitted investigation as stipulated in their end user agreements. Cooper acknowledged that the company is currently investigating the alleged misuse of their products and expressed readiness to impose sanctions through relevant agencies.

Conclusion

The report by Amnesty International underscores serious concerns regarding privacy violations and the misuse of surveillance technology in Serbia. As the debate continues, advocacy for accountability and reform in surveillance practices remains crucial for protecting human rights in the region.