An article published this week by the Washington Post revealed that foreign governments have surveillance capabilities over journalists and activists around the world, including in the United States.

While hacking remains illegal in the United States, where detecting and prosecuting hackers remains a challenge, especially on a global stage. As black market spyware flourishes, making surveillance technology more accessible, the task becomes even more difficult.

A report from University of Toronto's Citizen Lab detailed a December 20, 2013, cyber attack on two Ethiopian Satellite Television Service employees. The attackers was using a Remote Control System from Italian technology producer, Hacking Team, who sells products that can record internet communication, remotely operate surveillance equipment and download documents. The company is said to sell exclusively to governmental agencies, but the Citizen Lab report suggests otherwise. 

Journalists continue to be targeted and silenced across the world. This week, Reporters Without Borders released its most recent Press Freedom Index. Because of government policies and NSA surveillance, the United States fell below dozens of counties in journalist freedom. With new evidence that foreign agencies are capable of monitoring journalists' actions, freedom to investigate and share information is in further jeopardy.