Published on: 2025-02-28

Intelligence Report: Serbian police used Cellebrite zero-day hack to unlock Android phones – BleepingComputer

1. BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)

Serbian authorities reportedly utilized a zero-day exploit chain developed by Cellebrite to unlock Android devices. This action targeted student activists within the country, aiming to install spyware. The exploit was identified by Amnesty International’s Security Lab, leading to significant privacy rights concerns. In response, Cellebrite has restricted access to its tools for Serbian security services. Google has since patched the vulnerabilities, emphasizing the importance of timely security updates.

2. Detailed Analysis

The following structured analytic techniques have been applied for this analysis:

General Analysis

The use of Cellebrite’s zero-day exploit highlights the ongoing risks associated with digital forensic tools in the hands of state actors. The vulnerabilities exploited were found in the Linux kernel’s USB drivers, allowing unauthorized access and data extraction. Amnesty International’s findings underscore potential abuses of such technologies against civil society, raising significant ethical and legal questions. Google’s prompt patching of these vulnerabilities reflects an industry-wide effort to mitigate such risks, although the delay between discovery and patching remains a concern.

3. Implications and Strategic Risks

The incident poses several strategic risks:

• National Security: The exploitation of zero-day vulnerabilities by state actors could lead to increased tensions and mistrust in international relations.
• Regional Stability: The targeting of activists may exacerbate civil unrest and undermine democratic processes in Serbia.
• Economic Interests: The incident could impact the reputation and market position of companies like Cellebrite, affecting their business operations and partnerships.

4. Recommendations and Outlook

Recommendations:

• Encourage the development and enforcement of international regulations governing the use of digital forensic tools.
• Promote transparency and accountability among companies providing such technologies to state actors.
• Enhance collaboration between tech companies and security researchers to expedite vulnerability patching.

Outlook:

Best-case scenario: Increased international cooperation leads to stricter regulations and reduced misuse of digital forensic tools.
Worst-case scenario: Continued exploitation of vulnerabilities exacerbates regional instability and undermines global cybersecurity efforts.
Most likely outcome: Incremental improvements in security practices and regulatory frameworks, with ongoing challenges in enforcement and compliance.

5. Key Individuals and Entities

The report mentions significant individuals and organizations:

• Cellebrite
• Amnesty International
• Google
• Donncha Cearbhaill
• Grapheneo