ICE Confirms Use of Paragon's Spyware in US Drug Trafficking Cases

The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency has confirmed the use of Paragon's spyware in US drug trafficking cases, fueling concerns over civil liberties and human rights.

The agency's use of the spyware, made by US-Israeli company Paragon Solutions, was first reported by Bloomberg. According to a letter seen by TechCrunch, ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons approved the use of the spyware by the agency's criminal investigative unit, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

• Critics have long argued that the use of spyware by law enforcement agencies poses significant risks to civil liberties and human rights.
• The letter, seen by TechCrunch, attempts to address these concerns, stating that ICE's use of the spyware would "comply with constitutional requirements."
• However, Rep. Summer Lee, one of the lawmakers who had requested information from ICE, has expressed skepticism, stating that the agency is moving forward "with invasive spyware technology inside the United States."
• Lee added that instead of addressing the serious concerns raised, DHS is asking the public to accept "vague assurances and fear-based justifications."

Background on Paragon's Spyware

Paragon's spyware, called Graphite, has been at the center of a wide-ranging scandal in Italy, where journalists and pro-immigration activists were targeted with the spyware last year.

• In response to the scandal, Paragon cut off Italy's intelligence agencies from using its spyware tools.
• ICE had signed a contract with Paragon in 2024, but the deal was suspended by the Biden administration to assess whether it complied with an executive order restricting the use of spyware that could be used to target Americans abroad or violate human rights.
• In September 2025, ICE lifted the block and reactivated the contract.

Reaction to the News

• Rep. Summer Lee has expressed her concerns over the use of spyware by ICE, stating that the agency is moving forward "with invasive spyware technology inside the United States."
• The Democrat lawmaker added that instead of addressing the serious concerns raised, DHS is asking the public to accept "vague assurances and fear-based justifications."

Conclusion

The confirmation of ICE's use of Paragon's spyware in US drug trafficking cases has sparked concerns over civil liberties and human rights. As the agency continues to use the spyware, it remains to be seen how it will address the concerns raised by lawmakers and critics.