The action by Italy's privacy watchdog followed the breakup of what authorities call a paparazzi... Italy targets paparazzi aft

The action by Italy's privacy watchdog followed the breakup of what authorities call a paparazzi blackmailing ring that targeted actors, soccer players and politicians. And while many welcomed the curbs, others voiced concerns on what it means for media freedoms.

After days of photos and transcripts of purported telephone intercepts and interrogations involving starlets, athletes and other celebrities, the Privacy Authority on Friday forbade publication of "private facts and behavior that is not of public interest, not relevant to the story ... and violate the protection of the sexual sphere."

Violations carry potential sanctions of 3 months to 2 years in prison, plus possible fines. The photographer at the center of the inquiry was arrested along with two others Monday on allegations including extortion and money laundering.

The probe even touched former Premier Silvio Berlusconi, Italy's richest man, when newspapers reported he was the victim of blackmail over a photograph of his daughter.

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