Ronald Deibert, director of the Citizen Lab, took extensive precautions in April 2025 to protect himself from surveillance, purchasing new devices upon arrival in Illinois after leaving his personal electronics in Toronto. Deibert's actions underscore the increasing threat of digital espionage, particularly for individuals and organizations involved in cybersecurity research and advocacy.

Deibert founded the Citizen Lab in 2001 as a counterintelligence resource for civil society. The research center, based at the University of Toronto, investigates cyberthreats with the goal of exposing digital abuses. "I’m traveling under the assumption that I am being watched, right down to exactly where I am at any moment," Deibert stated, highlighting the constant vigilance required in his line of work.

The Citizen Lab has spent two decades exposing digital abuses. Their work involves analyzing malware, tracking spyware campaigns, and uncovering government surveillance operations. The institution operates independently, prioritizing the public interest in its investigations.

Deibert noted a shift in his perception of the United States, a country he and his colleagues previously considered a benchmark for liberal democracy. This change reflects growing concerns about surveillance practices and digital rights within the U.S.

The Citizen Lab continues its work, investigating cyberthreats and advocating for stronger protections against digital espionage. Their findings are regularly published in reports and academic papers, informing policymakers, civil society organizations, and the public about the latest developments in cybersecurity.