Intellexa Founder Appeals Conviction in Greek Wiretapping Scandal

The surveillance firm Intellexa, founded by Tal Dilian, a former Israeli soldier, is at the center of a significant legal controversy in Greece known as "Predatorgate." This scandal emerged in early 2022 when investigative journalist Thanassis Koukakis revealed that he had been wiretapped by the Greek intelligence services (EYP) and that his phone had been infected with Predator spyware. The Greek Authority for Communication Security and Privacy (ADAE) reported that this spyware was used against over 90 individuals, leading to substantial political fallout, including the dismissal of the head of EYP and the chief of staff to the Prime Minister.

Times of Israel

On February 26, 2024, a Greek court convicted Tal Dilian and three others of misdemeanor charges related to breaches of personal data, sentencing them to eight years in prison, which is suspended pending appeal. Dilian has publicly stated his intention to appeal the conviction, asserting that he will not be a "scapegoat" and claiming that the conviction lacks evidence. He has indicated plans to present his case to various national and international bodies, including the UN Special Rapporteur on judicial independence.

Times of Israel

Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis emphasized that judicial authorities are addressing the situation and noted that the Supreme Court had previously shelved the case against EYP, indicating a lack of evidence linking the defendants to the intelligence agency's actions. Dilian, in his defense, argued that the evidence presented during the trial contradicted the Supreme Court prosecutor's findings and maintained that surveillance technology is sold exclusively to governments, which are responsible for its legal use.

Times of Israel

Critics of the Greek government have raised concerns about the implications of the Predatorgate scandal, suggesting that it reflects broader issues of governmental overreach and the misuse of surveillance technology. The government has denied any wrongdoing, and despite the controversy, it survived a vote of no confidence in 2023.

Times of Israel

The Predator spyware, developed by Intellexa, has been implicated in unauthorized data extraction and tracking in numerous countries. In 2024, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Intellexa under President Joe Biden for the misuse of spyware, marking a significant action against such technologies. However, these sanctions were lifted the following year by President Donald Trump.

Times of Israel

As the appeal process unfolds, the case will likely continue to draw attention both within Greece and internationally, raising questions about the regulation of surveillance technologies and the accountability of governments in their use. The outcome of Dilian's appeal could have far-reaching implications for the future of surveillance practices and privacy rights in Greece and beyond.

Times of Israel