Feb 26 • 20:05 UTC 🇮🇱 Israel Haaretz

Former senior IDF official and founder of the cybersecurity company Intsikla convicted in Greece for developing spyware

A former senior officer of the IDF and founder of the cybersecurity company Intsikla was convicted in Greece for developing illegal spyware.

A Greek court has convicted Tal Dillian, a former senior official of the Israeli military intelligence, along with three others, for crimes including illegal wiretapping, invasion of privacy, and unauthorized access to computer systems through the operation of a spyware called Predator. This spyware was developed by Dillian's company, Intsikla, which is known for being a pioneer in offensive cybersecurity methods in Israel. The case marks a significant legal precedent, as it represents the first criminal conviction of senior figures in a cybersecurity company for offenses related to the conduct of their clients.

The implications of this ruling are profound, as it suggests that spyware manufacturers could face criminal responsibility for how their products are utilized by clients. This conviction against Dillian and his associates raises questions about accountability within the cybersecurity industry, particularly concerning ethical standards and the responsibilities of companies that provide surveillance tools. As cybersecurity continues to grow as a critical industry, the legal frameworks surrounding it may also evolve as a response to such cases.

This case could have lasting impacts on the global cybersecurity landscape, especially in regions where government and private stakeholders have employed spyware for various purposes. With rising concerns over privacy and individual rights, this landmark ruling could inspire similar actions in other jurisdictions, prompting further scrutiny on the actions of cybersecurity firms and the legal protections available to users of such technology.

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