TechCrunch Industry News Why a lot of people are getting hacked with government spyware, plus a better way of thinking about the AI bubble
Nov 11, 2025
Government spyware is increasingly targeting journalists, activists, and politicians, raising alarms about surveillance beyond just terrorists. Discussions reveal how low barriers and easy targeting enable widespread abuse. The implications for democracy are severe, as unchecked surveillance threatens elections. In a shift to AI, the talk addresses the risks of overinvesting without genuine demand, highlighting problematic timelines in AI infrastructure development and practical challenges like power limits in data centers.
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Spyware Targets Far Beyond Intended Subjects
- Government spyware is no longer limited to terrorists or serious criminals and hits journalists, activists, and political operatives.
- Easy targeting and high concurrent-target licenses magnify misuse by many states.
Italian Political Consultant Infected
- An Italian political consultant for left-wing politicians was confirmed as a Paragon spyware victim.
- This case illustrates spyware has reached political consultants in democratic countries.
Impunity Fuels Widespread Abuse
- Lack of transparency and accountability enables governments to deploy invasive surveillance without consequences.
- This impunity encourages targeting of minor opponents and critics, not just major criminals.