Close Menu

    Get the latest news around the globe

    Editor's Pick

    OPEC+ members agree to cut voluntary oil output

    New vaccine shows remarkable results in brain cancer trial

    Lunchables fails to gain traction in schools, Kraft Heinz pauses programme

    Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
    Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Instagram
    Britain HeraldBritain Herald
    Subscribe
    • Home
    • World Roundup
    • Business
    • Tech World
    • Entertainment & Events
    • Curious
    • More…
      • Spotlight
      • Knowledge
      • Lifestyle
      • Awareness
      • Women World
      • Sports
      • Travel
      • Notable
      • Contact Us
    Britain HeraldBritain Herald
    Home » Serbian Authorities accused of using spyware and cellebrite tools
    Tech World

    Serbian Authorities accused of using spyware and cellebrite tools

    Digital forensic tools intended for lawful investigations are being misused to target activists, journalists, and civil society groups, raising serious concerns over state surveillance and human rights violations.
    Trainee ReporterBy Trainee ReporterDecember 16, 2024
    Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp
    spyware and cellebrite tools
    Image Via: Amnesty International | Cropped by BH

    Serbia: A report by Amnesty International has revealed that Serbian police and intelligence agencies are using cutting-edge mobile forensics tools and undisclosed spyware, NoviSpy, to surveil journalists, environmental campaigners, and civil rights activists unlawfully.

    The report highlights the use of Cellebrite products, developed by the Israeli firm known for its mobile data extraction technology, to access and unlock smartphones. Once opened, NoviSpy spyware is installed, enabling leaders to collect sensitive personal data, remotely activate cameras and microphones, and strengthen surveillance.

    Dinushika Dissanayake, Amnesty International’s deputy regional director for Europe, stated that Serbian authorities are utilising these technologies as tools of state control. Dissanayake stated that, “When used outside strict legal frameworks, Cellebrite products pose an enormous risk to rights activists.”

    One notable case concerns investigative journalist Slavisa Milanov, who was detained briefly in February under the pretence of a drink-driving test. Milanov’s Android phone, surrendered while switched off, was later tampered with at the police station. Amnesty’s forensic analysis found that a Cellebrite tool was utilised to unlock the phone, and NoviSpy spyware was subsequently installed.

    Serbian Authorities accused of using spyware and cellebrite tools
    Image Via: Facebook@Cellebrite | Cropped by BH

    Similar tactics were used against environmental activist Nikola Ristic and other members of civil society groups, including Krokodil, an organisation promoting Balkan reconciliation. Forensic evidence connects the deployment of NoviSpy to Serbia’s Security Information Agency (BIA).

    Amnesty’s Security Lab head, Donncha O Cearbhaill, confirmed that the spyware’s installation relied on Cellebrite’s advanced UFED technology. Amnesty also advised Google of the spyware, which has since been removed from affected devices.

    Activists targeted by surveillance have described the psychological toll.  An anonymous activist stated that, “It’s incredibly painful; anything you say could be used against you.” Others expressed the difficult choice between self-censorship and continuing their work despite potential repercussions.

    The report reaches for stricter accountability measures for companies like Cellebrite, advising them to ensure their products are not misused to enable human rights violations. While Cellebrite asserts its tools are strictly for lawful use under proper warrants, Amnesty’s findings indicate otherwise.

    Both Cellebrite and Serbian authorities refused to comment on the report. Amnesty has urged stricter due perseverance by digital forensic companies to prevent abuse of their technologies in ways that threaten civil liberties.

    MOST READ | World-first AI camera trials to detect impaired drivers in the UK

    STAR OF SECTOR 2025
    Amnesty International Cellebrite Cellebrite Products Human Rights Journalist Safety NoviSpy Privacy Rights Serbia's Security Information Agency Serbian Authorities Spyware UFED Technology
    Share. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp
    Avatar
    Trainee Reporter

    The news/article published above has been sourced, compiled, and corroborated by a Trainee Reporter at Britain Herald. If you have any queries or complaints about the published material, please get in touch with us at BritainHerald@Gmail.Com

    Newly Updated

    Kashmir conflict: History of disputes, wars, and unresolved tensions

    May 9, 2025

    Robert Prevost becomes Pope Leo XIV, first American Pontiff

    May 9, 2025

    Brazil urges climate governance reform ahead of COP30

    May 8, 2025
    STAR OF SECTOR 2025

    Business

    MJ Mathew Takes Executive Role at WellMade Network

    Business May 8, 2025

    WellMade Network, headquartered in Sharjah Publishing City, UAE, has further strengthened its executive leadership with…

    UK and India sign trade deal to slash tariffs and boost exports

    May 7, 2025

    DoorDash to take over Deliveroo in landmark international deal

    May 6, 2025

    Elon Musk’s ‘Starbase’ inches closer to reality in Texas vote

    May 3, 2025
    Stay In Touch
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram

    Curious

    Glowing Spiral appears in night sky; Linked to SpaceX Falcon 9 Rocket

    March 25, 2025

    Once dubbed ‘Ugliest’; Blobfish triumphs as NZ ‘Fish of the Year’

    March 19, 2025

    Giant Iceberg A23a runs aground near South Georgia; Easing wildlife fears

    March 5, 2025

    NASA Astronauts to return after nine months in Space

    March 5, 2025

    Get the latest news around the globe

    Knowledge

    Kashmir conflict: History of disputes, wars, and unresolved tensions

    World Roundup May 9, 2025

    New Delhi, India / Islamabad, Pakistan: The Kashmir conflict between India and Pakistan has spanned…

    Snakebite survivor’s blood sparks universal antivenom discovery

    May 3, 2025

    ESA’s Biomass satellite set for launch to map forest carbon

    April 29, 2025

    Gigil: The new dictionary word for irresistible cuteness overload

    March 27, 2025
    18-EA-387-TryEngineeringSummerInst_BannerAd_300x250_Robot
    About Us
    About Us

    Britain Herald is a global news brand that plays a significant role in educating and informing the masses with informative content, the latest updates, and current affairs across the World.

    Operated and Managed by WellMade Network, the portal is a sister concern of GCC Business News and Emirati Times. For inquiries about Media Partnerships, Investment and other opportunities in line with our Editorial Policy, please contact us at;

    Email Us: News@BritainHerald.com
    Whatsapp: +971 5060 12456

    We Have

    Kashmir conflict: History of disputes, wars, and unresolved tensions

    May 9, 2025

    Robert Prevost becomes Pope Leo XIV, first American Pontiff

    May 9, 2025

    MJ Mathew Takes Executive Role at WellMade Network

    May 8, 2025

    Brazil urges climate governance reform ahead of COP30

    May 8, 2025
    Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Instagram
    • Home
    • Business
    • Tech World
    • Awareness
    • Contact Us
    Privacy & Cookies Policy | Terms & Conditions
    © 2002 BritainHerald.com, An Initiative by WellMade Network

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.