Surfshark backs Amnesty International digital forensics program to strengthen online defense

Surfshark is expanding its commitment to online privacy and digital freedom by becoming a supporting partner of Amnesty International’s Digital Forensics Fellowship (DFF), a specialized program aimed at strengthening the cybersecurity capabilities of activists, journalists, and human rights defenders worldwide.

The collaboration comes at a critical time as sophisticated spyware and digital surveillance tools continue to target civil society organizations, journalists, and advocacy groups operating in high-risk environments. Through this partnership, Surfshark is helping provide vital resources to individuals and organizations that often face severe technological threats while defending human rights and freedom of expression.

Fighting digital surveillance

Amnesty International’s Security Lab created the Digital Forensics Fellowship in response to the increasing number of spyware-related threats, particularly after revelations from the Pegasus Project exposed widespread surveillance abuses.

The program focuses on training human rights defender-technologists in mobile device forensics, equipping them with practical skills to investigate cyberattacks, detect spyware, and support vulnerable communities. This year’s fellowship includes Android and iOS forensic training, alongside guidance on establishing sustainable helplines that allow organizations to securely receive and respond to digital threat cases.

Surfshark CEO Dovydas Godelis emphasized that supporting DFF aligns directly with the company’s broader mission of ensuring safer digital experiences for everyone. Beyond offering security products, Surfshark views the initiative as a meaningful contribution toward strengthening the global digital safety ecosystem.

Expanding digital rights efforts

Surfshark’s support for Amnesty International is part of a wider strategy that includes partnerships with organizations such as Access Now, the Global Encryption Coalition, Internet Society, International Press Institute, and Open Rights Group.

Through these collaborations, Surfshark contributes to digital rights by offering free VPN access to journalists and activists through its Emergency VPN initiative, advocating for stronger encryption standards, supporting cybersecurity education, and raising awareness about censorship and internet shutdowns globally.

As digital threats evolve, the partnership between Surfshark and Amnesty International highlights the growing need for both technological solutions and human expertise in defending privacy, free speech, and civil liberties online. By investing in digital resilience, both organizations aim to help vulnerable communities better navigate an increasingly hostile online landscape.