Our Phones Under Occupation: Israel’s Expanding Digital Influence – Sunday Morning News
Recent reports suggest a growing pattern of Israeli influence and access to data through major tech platforms, raising concerns about digital privacy and freedom of expression, especially regarding the conflict in Gaza.
VPN Use and Israeli Countermeasures
The use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) has increased, particularly among young people seeking to mask their digital footprint. However, reports indicate Israel is actively acquiring VPN-providing companies in an effort to circumvent these privacy measures and track individuals, even those using VPNs.
Instagram’s pro-Israeli Bias
Since October 7, 2023, Instagram, owned by Marc Zuckerberg, has been accused of exhibiting a pro-Israeli bias. Reports claim the platform has limited the visibility of content related to Gaza while simultaneously promoting pro-Israeli posts. as October 7, 2023, Israel has reportedly dropped over 100,000 tons of bombs on Gaza, a force nearly seven times greater than the bomb dropped on Hiroshima during World War II.
WhatsApp Data Sharing
Investigations by +972 and Local Call have revealed that WhatsApp has been sharing Palestinian user data with Israel. Israeli intelligence reportedly utilizes artificial intelligence systems – including “The Gospel,” “Lavender,” and “Who’s Daddy” - to identify and locate individuals in Gaza, collecting data through WhatsApp.
Facebook’s Restrictions on Palestinian Media
A BBC study found that Facebook substantially reduced the reach of Palestinian news sources during the Israel-Gaza war. Interaction rates for news organizations operating in Gaza and the West bank have reportedly decreased substantially as October 2023.
YouTube Propaganda Funding
According to research from German and French press, the Israeli government is investing millions of dollars in advertising on YouTube to disseminate propaganda. YouTube is also reported to have increased the visibility of pro-Israel videos on its platform.
Google’s Collaboration and the Nimbus Project
Time magazine reported on a close relationship between Google and the Israeli government. The Israeli army is reportedly utilizing information obtained through Google services in its operations. Furthermore, Google is party to the “Nimbus” project, a $1.2 billion agreement providing Israel with advanced artificial intelligence technology.
ChatGPT Adaptation and AI Targeting
The Associated Press (AP) reported that the Israeli army is receiving substantial support from Microsoft and OpenAI infrastructure in Gaza, where over 66,000 civilians have been killed. Former OpenAI employees have confirmed this cooperation. Additionally,US-based Clock Tower X has entered into a multi-million dollar agreement with Unit 8200,Israel’s digital intelligence unit,to develop an AI model similar to ChatGPT specifically designed to better identify palestinians.
