The Biden administration’s crackdown on commercial spyware misuse intensifies, as the U.S. Commerce Department blacklists two Europe-based cyber-surveillance firms, Cytrox and Intellexa, citing threats to global privacy and security.
Cytrox, known for developing the notorious ‘Predator‘ spyware, and Intellexa, along with two of their associated entities, have been put on the economic trade blacklist. This move prohibits U.S. companies from engaging in business with these firms.
This follows allegations of a Greek journalist’s smartphone being infected with Predator spyware, purportedly in an intelligence service operation. Predator, sold in Greece by Intellexa, has raised substantial concerns over privacy breaches.
Today’s action underscores the U.S. government’s commitment to counter the misuse of surveillance tools, often associated with human rights abuses and violations. The blacklisting is a significant step in mitigating risks posed by such cyber-surveillance entities.