Threat Overview\n\nThe Security Operations Center (SOC) has recently identified a new threat report published by CyberHunter_NL on June 20, 2025. The report, titled ‘Graphite Caught: First Forensic Confirmation of Paragon’s iOS Mercenary Spyware Finds Journalists Targeted,’ provides critical insights into a sophisticated spyware campaign targeting journalists. This report is of the highest confidence level (100) and is considered completely reliable (A – Completely reliable).\n\nThe report details the activities of a mercenary spyware group known as Paragon, which has been deploying advanced spyware on iOS devices. The primary targets of this campaign appear to be journalists, highlighting the growing trend of cyber threats against individuals in high-risk professions. The report includes 31 connected elements, providing a comprehensive overview of the threat landscape.\n\nKey Findings\n\n1. Spyware Deployment: The report confirms the forensic evidence of Paragon’s spyware being deployed on iOS devices. This spyware is designed to exfiltrate sensitive information from targeted devices, posing a significant risk to privacy and security.\n\n2. Target Profile: Journalists are the primary targets of this campaign. The report suggests that the spyware is used to monitor and gather information on individuals who may have access to sensitive or confidential data.\n\n3. Technical Details: The report provides detailed technical analysis of the spyware, including its methods of deployment, persistence mechanisms, and data exfiltration techniques. This information is crucial for understanding the threat and developing effective mitigation strategies.\n\n4. External References: The report includes external references for further investigation. These references provide additional context and technical details that can aid in the understanding and mitigation of the threat.\n\nRecommendations\n\n1. Enhanced Monitoring: Implement enhanced monitoring of iOS devices, particularly those used by journalists or individuals in high-risk professions. This includes regular checks for unusual activity and the deployment of advanced threat detection tools.\n\n2. Security Awareness Training: Conduct security awareness training for journalists and other high-risk individuals. This training should focus on recognizing phishing attempts, avoiding suspicious links, and understanding the signs of a compromised device.\n\n3. Device Hardening: Apply device hardening techniques to iOS devices. This includes disabling unnecessary services, implementing strong authentication mechanisms, and regularly updating the device software to patch known vulnerabilities.\n\n4. Incident Response Plan: Develop and maintain an incident response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in the event of a suspected spyware infection. This plan should include procedures for isolating the device, conducting forensic analysis, and restoring the device to a secure state.\n\n5. Collaboration with Security Researchers: Collaborate with security researchers and organizations such as The Citizen Lab to stay informed about emerging threats and share information on best practices for mitigation.\n\nConclusion\n\nThe threat posed by Paragon’s iOS mercenary spyware is significant and requires a proactive approach to mitigation. By implementing the recommendations outlined in this report, organizations and individuals can reduce the risk of falling victim to this sophisticated campaign. Regular monitoring, security awareness training, device hardening, and a well-defined incident response plan are essential components of an effective defense strategy.\n\nFor additional information, please refer to the following external references:\n\n- https://otx.alienvault.com/pulse/685566a83be9a180138b5056\n- https://citizenlab.ca/2025/06/first-forensic-confirmation-of-paragons-ios-mercenary-spyware-finds-journalists-targeted/\n\nPlease check the following page for additional information:\n\nhttps://citizenlab.ca/2025/06/first-forensic-confirmation-of-paragons-ios-mercenary-spyware-finds-journalists-targeted/