A major scandal involving Israeli spyware firm Paragon has rocked Italy and Europe, sparking outrage across the region. Reports have revealed that journalists and activists in Italy were spied on using Paragon’s surveillance software,

WhatsApp alleged last week that Paragon Solutions spyware was used to target users of the messaging app in two dozen countries.

WhatsApp said users in several European countries were targeted with Paragon spyware, according to the Italian government.

Italy faced pressure on Friday to explain its relationship with Israeli spyware maker Paragon following reports that the company had cut ties with Rome over allegations that the government had used its technology to hack the phones of critics instead of criminals.