Egypt: Opposition Presidential Candidate Targeted by Spyware

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The Facts

  • Security researchers at Citizen Lab have claimed that attempts were made to hack Egyptian presidential candidate Ahmed Altantawy's data. Experts from the internet watchdog say the efforts likely stemmed from the current Egyptian government under Pres. Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.

  • In assessments published in a blog post, Citizen Lab claimed that attacks against the politician began at the start of August and were identified by its researchers as well as Google's Threat Analysis Group last week. Attempts were also allegedly made to access Altantaway's phone in May.


The Spin

Narrative A

The Egyptian government and its president are continuing to focus on the creation of a better society for the Egyptian people. Pres. Sisi understands the interests of those he has been trusted to lead, while his success is evident throughout the nation. We must all hope that the journey towards prosperity for all continues to flourish under the current government's guidance.

Narrative B

The regime in Egypt is both authoritarian and relentless; it's cracking down against all those who attempt to voice their own opinion and provide an alternative to the country's leadership. Egypt's political and economic situation remains dire, without any reasonable chance of electoral change or revolution and regardless of a total lack of popular support.