Amnesty Accuses Serbia of Digital Surveillance Abuses

Serbian surveillance abuses

Allegations of Targeted Surveillance

Amnesty International has accused Serbian authorities of illegally hacking phones to monitor journalists and activists. According to a recent report, the Serbian police and intelligence services used advanced tools, including Cellebrite forensic technology and locally developed spyware called “NoviSpy,” to extract sensitive data.

The tools reportedly enabled authorities to retrieve contact lists, capture screenshots, and gather private information during detentions and questioning. Serbian officials have rejected these claims as “nonsensical,” but testimonies from over a dozen journalists and activists suggest otherwise. Amnesty asserts that these actions aim to suppress dissent and control civil society.

Misuse of Surveillance Tools

The report highlights the misuse of Cellebrite, a globally recognized tool for unlocking phones and retrieving data, and NoviSpy, a Serbian-made spyware. NoviSpy is said to infiltrate devices, covertly collect data, and transmit it to government servers.

Investigative journalist Slaviša Milanov described how his phone was tampered with after a routine traffic stop. Amnesty’s forensic analysis revealed that Cellebrite was used to unlock his phone, while NoviSpy was installed to monitor his activities. This breach exposed Milanov’s private and professional communications.

Amnesty criticized the lack of oversight, emphasizing the dangers of unchecked surveillance. “The combined use of Cellebrite and NoviSpy underscores the urgent need for stricter safeguards to protect privacy and digital freedoms,” the report stated.

Context: Political Tensions and Protests

The allegations come amid heightened political tensions in Serbia. Ongoing anti-government protests, sparked by a deadly infrastructure collapse in November that killed 15 people, have added pressure to President Aleksandar Vučić’s administration.

Vučić has accused Western intelligence agencies and NGOs of funding the protests, describing them as “hybrid warfare” against his government. Despite these claims, the protests remain peaceful and largely led by activists and students.

Serbia’s intelligence agency, BIA, denied the allegations, asserting that its operations comply with the law. However, police authorities have declined to comment on Amnesty’s findings.

Implications for Privacy and International Relations

Amnesty warns that Serbia’s alleged misuse of surveillance technology poses serious risks to privacy and digital freedoms. These revelations could damage Serbia’s aspirations for European Union membership and strain its international relationships.

The report urges Serbian authorities to implement stronger oversight mechanisms to protect journalists, activists, and civil society from digital repression. Amnesty also called for international scrutiny to ensure accountability and prevent further abuses.

Key Takeaways:

  • Illegal Surveillance: Serbian authorities allegedly used Cellebrite and NoviSpy to monitor journalists and activists.
  • Political Context: The allegations come amid anti-government protests and rising dissatisfaction with President Vučić’s administration.
  • Global Implications: Misuse of surveillance technology may harm Serbia’s EU membership ambitions and international standing.
  • Call for Oversight: Amnesty demands stricter safeguards to protect privacy and digital rights.

What are your thoughts on the alleged surveillance abuses in Serbia? Share your perspective in the comments below.


Author

  • Jerry Jackson

    Jerry Jackson is an experienced news reporter and editor at New York Mirror, specializing in a wide range of topics, from current events to in-depth analysis. Known for his thorough research and clear reporting, Jerry ensures that the content is both accurate and engaging for readers.

    View all posts