Spyware Scandal: Italy's government says it did not target journalists, despite claims of hacking.

The Italian government said it did not spy on journalists or activists. However, it will investigate claims that Italian phones were hacked with spyware. This comes after WhatsApp told many people in Europe that they were targeted by spyware from an Israeli company called Paragon Solutions.

An Italian minister said the government has a contract with Paragon to help fight terrorism. But he said the government always follows the law and would never spy on journalists. He also said that Italian intelligence agencies will help with the investigation.

News reports suggest that Paragon stopped its contract with Italy after the hacking became public. It seems that Paragon had two contracts with Italy for a powerful surveillance tool. Paragon did not respond to requests for comment.

Among those targeted were an activist who rescues migrants and a journalist who has criticized the government. Both received messages from WhatsApp warning them about the spyware. The journalist believes he was targeted because of his investigative work, which has included undercover reports on the ruling party.

The activist leads a group that saves migrants in the Mediterranean Sea. He has spoken out against the Italian government's support for Libya's efforts to stop migrant boats. The investigation into the hacking is ongoing.