Governments worldwide, including those in Ethiopia, Greece, and Saudi Arabia, have been implicated in hacking journalists and human rights activists using advanced spyware. The use of such technology has resulted in not only digital breaches but also real-world repercussions, including intimidation and violence against victims.
The Digital Security Helpline, operated by the nonprofit Access Now, has emerged as a crucial support system for those affected by these cyberattacks. A dedicated team of digital security experts, primarily located in regions like Costa Rica and Tunisia, provides 24/7 assistance to individuals suspecting they have been targeted. Hassen Selmi, who leads the team, emphasized the importance of having knowledgeable support available for victims, especially when they receive alerts from tech giants like Apple regarding potential spyware threats.
Access Now's Helpline has become a vital resource, often referred to by companies such as Apple in their user notifications about spyware risks. Bill Marczak, a senior researcher at the University of Toronto’s Citizen Lab, noted that Access Now serves as a frontline resource for those in danger from such digital threats.