November 17, 2023 at 12:27PM
Environmentalists speaking at the sentencing of an Israeli man involved in a global computer hacking campaign argued that the public was the true victim. The hacking, targeting those fighting big oil companies over climate change, resulted in leaked documents and psychological distress for victims. The man was sentenced to over six years in prison for conspiracy to commit computer hacking, wire fraud, and identity theft. Victims hope the investigation continues to uncover who funded the attacks.
Key Points from Meeting Notes:
– Environmentalists addressed a federal judge regarding a global computer hacking campaign that targeted individuals and organizations fighting big oil companies to reveal the truth about global warming.
– Aviram Azari, an Israeli man, was sentenced to six years and eight months in prison for his role in the hacking network.
– Peter Frumhoff, director of science and policy at the Union of Concerned Scientists, emphasized that the public was the intended victim of the hacking campaign.
– Lee Wasserman, director of the Rockefeller Family Fund, highlighted the responsibility to communicate the truth about climate change.
– Azari owned an Israeli intelligence firm and earned $4.8 million by managing hacking campaigns disguised as other projects.
– Hacked documents were leaked to journalists, leading to investigations into Exxon Mobile Corp.’s knowledge and statements regarding climate change.
– Victims experienced psychological distress and anxiety due to the invasion of their personal and professional lives.
– Azari pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit computer hacking, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft.
– Azari apologized to his victims, took full responsibility for his crimes, and expressed hope for further investigation to uncover those who paid him.
– Azari requested forgiveness from his victims and suggested there would come a time when he could provide more details about his crimes.