Google Maps and Waze disable live traffic data in Israel and Gaza amid controversy
Fake placenames with anti-Israel messages have flooded Google Maps' depiction of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt. Cyber activists took advantage of a feature on Google Maps that allows users to create and contribute information about businesses and landmarks. Dozens of anti-Israel placenames were found in Arabic and English, including offensive messages. Google has disabled its live traffic data in Israel and Gaza, but it is unclear if this action is related to the targeting of Google Maps. The company is actively reviewing and removing policy-violating content. Cyber vandalism is a politically agnostic form of hacktivism that can be carried out anonymously.