The U.S. Investigates Alleged Hacking Campaign Targeting Climate Activists
The Allegations
A U.S. Justice Department investigation revealed a global hacking campaign targeting American climate activists, allegedly orchestrated by an Israeli private investigator named Amit Forlit. Extradition hearings for Forlit took place in London this week.
According to court documents, the hacking was allegedly ordered by a Washington, D.C. lobbying firm working on behalf of a major oil and gas company in Texas to discredit groups and individuals involved in climate litigation.
Extradition Efforts
The U.S. is seeking to extradite Forlit for leading a sophisticated hacking operation that spanned continents. The operation involved hacking into email accounts and devices, among other methods, according to court filings.
Forlit denied any involvement in ordering or paying for the hacking, while the U.S. government has indicted him on charges of conspiracy to commit computer hacking, wire fraud, and other offenses.
The Global Impact
Hackers hired by Forlit also targeted government officials in Africa, members of a Mexican political party, and critics of a German company. U.S. District Judge John Koeltl sentenced an associate of Forlit, Aviram Azari, to more than six years in prison for managing the hacking campaigns.
The U.S. has alleged that ExxonMobil benefited from leaked information obtained through the hacking, which was used to undermine state climate investigations of the company.
Corporate Denials
ExxonMobil has denied any involvement in hacking activities and condemned such actions. The company emphasized its commitment to legal and ethical practices.
DCI, the lobbying firm allegedly linked to the hacking campaign, declined to comment on the allegations. The firm has a history of working with the fossil fuel industry, including lobbying for ExxonMobil.
Legal Implications
The hacking operation, known as “Fox Hunt,” targeted individuals and organizations engaged in climate change litigation. Victims of the hacking stress the importance of identifying those behind the operation to prevent future incidents.
Environmental lawyer Matt Pawa emphasized the need to uncover the masterminds of the hacking for deterrence purposes and to ensure accountability.
In conclusion, the investigation into the alleged hacking campaign underscores the impact of cyber attacks on civil society and the importance of cybersecurity in protecting activists and organizations advocating for environmental causes.