Serbian Civil Society Hit by Advanced Spyware: What You Need to Know 2026

In a concerning development, at least 14 members of Serbian civil society were targeted with advanced spyware earlier this year, as reported by the digital rights group Share Foundation. This incident highlights the growing threat of surveillance technology and its impact on activists and journalists worldwide.

What Happened in Serbia?

The wave of spyware infections was discovered in August after Apple alerted users in 110 countries about potential mercenary spyware attacks. Share Foundation confirmed that this marks the largest documented wave of such infections in Serbia to date. The Citizen Lab, a renowned cybersecurity research group, released an analysis revealing that at least one victim was targeted with NSO Group’s Pegasus spyware, which grants attackers total access to the device.

Among those targeted were members of a Serbian student movement that has been vocal against the government of Aleksandar Vučić since 2024. The movement emerged from nationwide protests following a train station collapse and is considered one of the largest student movements in Europe.

Who is Behind the Attacks?

There is currently no evidence directly linking the Serbian government to these attacks. However, the timing and targets have raised concerns among human rights organizations. Ana Brnabić, the parliamentary speaker, denied any state involvement, but critics point to a pattern of surveillance in the region.

Understanding the Threat of Spyware

Spyware like Pegasus is a type of malicious software that can infiltrate smartphones and other devices without the user's knowledge. It can access messages, calls, photos, and even activate microphones and cameras remotely. This level of access poses a severe risk to privacy and security, especially for journalists, activists, and political dissidents.

According to cybersecurity experts, the use of mercenary spyware has increased significantly in recent years, with governments and private entities exploiting vulnerabilities in mobile operating systems.

Comparison of Spyware Threats

How to Protect Yourself from Spyware

While it may be challenging to defend against advanced spyware, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Regularly update your device's operating system and apps to patch security vulnerabilities.
• Enable two-factor authentication on all accounts to add an extra layer of security.
• Be cautious of suspicious links or attachments in emails and messages, especially from unknown senders.
• Use reputable security software and consider mobile threat defense solutions.
• If you suspect you are a target, contact digital security organizations like Citizen Lab or Access Now for assistance.

FAQ

The targeting of Serbian civil society members is a stark reminder of the importance of cybersecurity in protecting democratic processes and individual freedoms. As spyware becomes more prevalent, it is crucial for governments, civil society, and tech companies to work together to combat these threats and hold perpetrators accountable.

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