WhatsApp Reports Targeted Spy Campaign Against 200 Users in Italy

WhatsApp revealed that an Italian surveillance company targeted roughly 200 users through a sophisticated phishing scheme. The attack involved tricking victims into downloading a fake version of the WhatsApp app designed to spy on their communications.

According to WhatsApp, the campaign was “highly targeted,” employing deceptive tactics to convince individuals to install malware impersonating the official application. The company has warned users to remain vigilant against unofficial app downloads and suspicious links.

The platform named ASIGINT, part of the Italian company SIO, as the entity behind the operation. ASIGINT claims to provide “advanced cyber intelligence solutions” and cooperates with governmental and security agencies.

Most victims were reportedly located in Italy, although WhatsApp did not disclose their identities. Italian authorities and the companies implicated had not responded immediately to requests for comment.

This marks the second such espionage operation exposed by Meta in Italy within 15 months, amid ongoing fallout from spyware scandals affecting the country in recent years. The incident highlights persistent cybersecurity risks in Europe and underscores the importance of user vigilance and institutional oversight.