Intellexa spyware targets Angolan journalist

A prominent journalist in Angola had their phone hacked using Intellexa spyware, identified as Predator, according to a recent report by TechCrunch.

Amnesty International revealed that Teixeira Cândido, a local journalist and press freedom advocate, received malicious links via WhatsApp in 2024. After clicking one link, his iPhone was compromised. Researchers linked the intrusion to Intellexa by analyzing forensic data and identifying infection servers previously associated with the company's spyware infrastructure. Predator spyware reportedly remained undetected by impersonating legitimate iOS system processes. Previous abuses of Predator spyware have been documented in Egypt, Greece, and Vietnam, reportedly targeting journalists, politicians, and government critics.

The continued use of commercial spyware like Predator by government entities raises significant concerns about privacy and freedom of expression for journalists and activists globally. Despite sanctions placed on Intellexa and its founder, the company appears to remain active.

Source: TechCrunch