Hello followers! Today, we’re diving into the intriguing world of surveillance technology and ethics.

Paragon, an Israeli spyware company that brands itself as an “ethical” surveillance vendor, faces tough questions over its potential role with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Earlier this year, Italy used Paragon’s tools to spy on journalists—prompting the company to cut ties and publicly name its customer for the first time. Now, a new concern is arising: whether Paragon will allow ICE agents to deploy its spyware.

In September 2024, Paragon signed a one-year, $2 million contract with ICE, which remains under review and has not yet been activated. For now, the company hasn’t supplied its tools to ICE, but the U.S. government’s push for larger budgets and increased immigration enforcement raises questions about future use. Since taking office, the Trump administration has authorized extensive raids, relying on government data and technology—some of which involves companies like Palantir—to identify targets for deportation.

With the contract set to expire in September 2025, Paragon faces a critical moment. The decision about whether to supply ICE with spyware could significantly impact its ethical stance. Paragon declined to comment on what it plans to do if the contract is approved or how it will handle its relationship with ICE moving forward.

Adding complexity, Paragon has previously sold its tools to government clients, including U.S. allies, asserting its commitment to responsible sales. However, its self-description as an “ethical” vendor has led to increased scrutiny—especially after reports that its spyware targeted journalists and activists.

As governments change and new administrations take power, Paragon may need to reevaluate its partnerships to maintain its claimed ethical standards. Advocates like Michael De Dora from Access Now hope the company will reconsider any involvement with agencies that have questionable human rights records.