Amnesty Highlights Alleged Phone Hacking of Journalists and Activists
Amnesty International has accused Serbian authorities of hacking phones and surveilling journalists and activists without proper legal oversight. The organization claims that Serbian police and intelligence agencies misused advanced tools, including Cellebrite technology and Serbian-developed spyware known as “NoviSpy.”
According to Amnesty, these technologies were used to extract personal data, take screenshots, and duplicate contact lists. Serbian officials have denied the accusations, calling them baseless and “nonsensical.”
The allegations are based on testimonies from over a dozen activists and journalists. Many reported that their phones were tampered with during police detentions or questioning. Amnesty suggests these surveillance practices are part of a broader attempt to silence civil society.
Spyware and Forensic Tools Deployed for Targeted Surveillance
Cellebrite’s forensic tools, designed to unlock phones and retrieve data, were allegedly used by Serbian authorities without appropriate oversight. NoviSpy, a spyware developed in Serbia, reportedly infected devices to covertly gather information and upload it to government-controlled servers.
The report details how NoviSpy enabled authorities to take screenshots of devices and extract sensitive contact information. Amnesty’s forensic investigation found that these tools were used in combination to maximize surveillance.
One victim, investigative journalist Slaviša Milanov, reported that his phone was compromised following a traffic stop in February. Amnesty’s analysis revealed that Cellebrite unlocked Milanov’s phone, while NoviSpy was installed to monitor his activities. This exposed nearly all his personal information to authorities.
Amnesty criticized the use of these invasive tools, warning that unchecked surveillance threatens privacy and digital rights. The organization called for stricter legal controls and accountability to prevent further misuse.
Surveillance Allegations Amid Rising Protests
The accusations come during a tense period in Serbia, with anti-government protests gaining momentum. Demonstrations erupted in November after a deadly infrastructure collapse killed 15 people. Led by activists and students, the protests have remained peaceful but reflect growing dissatisfaction with President Aleksandar Vučić’s leadership.
President Vučić has accused foreign intelligence agencies, NGOs, and media outlets of financing the protests. He referred to these actions as “hybrid warfare” against Serbia and his administration.
Serbia’s intelligence agency, BIA, rejected Amnesty’s findings, asserting that its operations comply with Serbian law. Police authorities have not responded publicly to the report’s allegations.
Amnesty’s findings also raise questions about Serbia’s collaborations with countries like Russia and China in the intelligence and surveillance fields. These developments may affect Serbia’s European Union membership aspirations and its international reputation. Amnesty continues to urge greater oversight to protect journalists, activists, and civil society from digital repression.