Investigation Uncovers Potential Spy Software on Italian Justice System Computers
A recent investigation by the Italian news program “Report” has uncovered a potential spy software installed on approximately 40,000 computers used by the administration of justice in Italy. The software, which was allegedly installed in 2019, is capable of accessing files without leaving a trace, raising concerns about the government’s potential surveillance of the judiciary. The news has sparked a heated debate, with the opposition and judiciary expressing outrage and the Minister of Justice, Carlo Nordio, denying any wrongdoing.
Allegations of Government Surveillance
According to the investigation, the software was installed by technicians from the technological department of the Ministry of Justice on all devices present in prosecutor’s offices, courts, and judicial offices in Italy, without the knowledge of the minister at the time, Alfonso Bonafede. The software allegedly allows any technician with administrator permission to activate it without the knowledge of the magistrates. Debora Serracchiani, a member of parliament and responsible for the Chamber Justice of the Democratic Party, has called the allegations “very serious” and has demanded that the Prime Minister explain the situation.
Minister of Justice Responds
Minister Nordio has responded to the allegations, stating that the software does not allow surveillance of the activity of magistrates and that remote control functions would require a user request and explicit confirmation. He has also accused the news program “Report” of trying to “raise social alarm” and has denied any wrongdoing. However, the general secretary of the ANM, Rocco Maruotti, has expressed concern about the potential vulnerability in the ministerial IT systems and has called for an explanation.
Justice Reform Debate
The debate over the justice reform has also been heating up, with the opposition and judiciary expressing concerns about the government’s plans. The ANM has announced the States General on Justice for next March 15, where the government will be asked to account for its actions. The two Chambers have approved the centre-right resolution on justice by majority, which includes a commitment to adopt the necessary legislative acts to give effective and concrete implementation of the constitutional reform.
Microsoft Statement
Microsoft has released a statement regarding the software, stating that the Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager solution is designed for the corporate world and public sector with high security requirements. The company has emphasized that the configuration and governance of the solutions are defined by customer organizations, in line with their legal and security obligations. Remote management requires specific administrative privileges, and related activities are traceable as they are recorded in the audit logs.
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