Microsoft has restricted some cloud services to Israel's Defense Ministry after investigations suggested the use of Microsoft Azure for mass surveillance of Palestinians, particularly by Unit 8200, amid ongoing conflicts and allegations of misuse.
Microsoft has cut off Israel's military's access to its technology after an investigation revealed that Israeli military unit 8200 used Microsoft Azure to store and analyze mass surveillance data of Palestinians, violating the company's terms of service. The decision follows public pressure and internal reviews, marking a rare instance of a US tech company restricting services to the Israeli military amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Sanaz Yashar, a former Iranian refugee and Israeli spy, has raised $30 million for her cybersecurity startup, Zafran, after spending 15 years in Israeli intelligence. The company aims to prevent cybercriminals from exploiting known vulnerabilities in companies’ networks, using existing technologies to mitigate risks. Backed by VC heavyweights, Zafran is focused on ultrafast growth and has already secured 12 customers, including a healthcare organization. Yashar's extensive experience in cybersecurity, including investigating major cyberattacks, positions her as a legitimate and knowledgeable figure in the industry.