hack-for-hire Archives

hack-for-hire

Hack-for-hire spyware campaign targets journalists in Middle East, North Africa

Access Now, Lookout and SMEX joined research forces to find a campaign involving suspected Indian government-connected group Bitter, ProSpy spyware and more.

Apr 8, 2026 By Tim Starks

The group developed a malware platform known as “Mafalda,” the name of an Argentine cartoon character popular with the Hispanic diaspora dating back to the 1960s. (Photo by PEDRO PARDO/AFP via Getty Images)

Researchers unearth hacking group that’s been active, yet undetected for years

The group has targeted telecommunications, internet service providers and universities in the Middle East and Africa, researchers said.

Sep 22, 2022