A digital rights organization identified at least 14 individuals across Serbian civil society who were infected with advanced spyware in the months prior to August. Apple’s notification to affected users in over 110 countries prompted the discovery of the infections affecting Serbian targets.
Forensic analysis conducted by the Citizen Lab revealed that at least one of the Serbian victims was targeted with Pegasus spyware, developed by the NSO Group, which would have provided attackers with comprehensive access to the compromised device. Among those targeted were members of a student-led movement that has opposed the government of Aleksandar Vučić since 2024. The movement emerged from nationwide protests following a train station collapse that winter and has become one of Europe’s largest student organizations.
Vučić has maintained power for over a decade, with observers noting concerns about institutional weakening and geopolitical reorientation. Government officials, including parliamentary speaker Ana Brnabić from the ruling Serbian Progressive party, denied allegations of surveillance activities. Digital rights advocates suggested the timing of infections during local elections in March may have served as preparation for snap elections scheduled for later this year. One targeted student described the experience as deeply invasive but expressed resolve that the surveillance would not discourage continued activism.
The NSO Group, manufacturer of Pegasus spyware, originated in Israel with military connections and is now under US ownership. The company has faced permanent court restrictions from targeting WhatsApp and Meta products, though the nature of the recent Serbian attacks remains unclear. Researchers emphasized that despite years of reform pledges, Pegasus continues functioning as a tool for political suppression against democracy advocates.
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