Overview

• Federal procurement documents first noted by All-Source Intelligence show DHS lifted a stop‑work order on ICE’s one‑year contract with Paragon Solutions.
• Graphite can penetrate mobile phones, read messages in encrypted apps like WhatsApp and Signal, track locations, and turn devices into listening tools.
• The deal was paused in October 2024 for a review under a 2023 executive order restricting government use of commercial spyware with records of abuse.
• Paragon’s technology has drawn scrutiny after forensic evidence and corporate reports tied it to targeting journalists and activists, prompting Italy to sever ties and WhatsApp to issue a cease‑and‑desist.
• It remains unclear how ICE will deploy the tool; ICE and Paragon did not comment to reporters, and Sen. Ron Wyden said he has requested a briefing while warning of civil‑rights risks.