The acting head of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has confirmed the agency purchased and used spyware from Paragon Solutions in drug trafficking investigations. This was revealed in a letter from ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons to lawmakers, seen by TechCrunch. Lyons stated the spyware helps counter foreign terrorists exploiting encrypted communications, a common law enforcement justification for such tools.
Critics highlight that commercial spyware has been used to hack journalists, politicians, and activists globally. Lyons asserted ICE’s use would comply with constitutional requirements and posed no significant security risks.
ICE signed a contract with Paragon in 2024, which was briefly suspended for a White House review. It was reactivated in September 2025. Paragon’s spyware was implicated in a scandal targeting journalists and activists in Italy last year.
In response to the letter, Congresswoman Summer Lee criticized ICE for moving forward with invasive technology based on vague assurances, arguing it risks abuse against immigrants, communities of color, and journalists. Paragon and ICE did not respond to requests for comment.