tech
April 2, 2026
ICE says it bought Paragon's spyware to use in drug trafficking cases
The acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement told lawmakers that the use of Paragon spyware is necessary to counter terrorists’ “thriving exploitation of encrypted communications platforms.”
TL;DR
- ICE has bought and used spyware from Paragon Solutions in drug trafficking cases.
- The agency's acting director approved the use of spyware to counter the exploitation of encrypted communication platforms by foreign terrorist organizations.
- ICE stated the use of spyware complies with constitutional requirements and does not pose significant risks of improper use.
- A previous contract with Paragon Solutions was suspended by the Biden administration to assess compliance with executive orders but was later reactivated.
- Paragon Solutions has been involved in a scandal in Italy where its spyware was allegedly used to target journalists and activists.
- Lawmakers have expressed concerns about the invasive nature of the spyware and vague assurances from DHS.
- Critics worry that immigrants, minority communities, journalists, and activists are at risk of being targeted.
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