OFAC’s Spyware Surprise: Sanctioned Trio Mysteriously Vanish from Blacklist!

The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s OFAC has removed three individuals linked to the Intellexa Consortium and its Predator spyware from the specially designated nationals list. While the reason remains unclear, the decision comes amid concerns about the growing security risks posed by commercial spyware and its misuse against civil society figures.

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Hot Take:

Well, it looks like the OFAC is playing a game of “Spy-vs-Spy” with the Predator gang. Removing them from the naughty list might be a case of mistaken identity, or perhaps they just promised to be good from now on. Who knew that getting off the hook could be as simple as putting on a suit and hiring a good lobbyist? Let’s hope this doesn’t inspire others to try the same magic trick!

Key Points:

  • Three individuals linked to the Intellexa Consortium were removed from the sanctions list.
  • The individuals were previously sanctioned due to their roles in the Predator spyware operations.
  • The reasons behind their removal from the list remain unclear.
  • Intellexa Consortium’s spyware, Predator, is notorious for being stealthy and is similar to Pegasus.
  • Concerns remain about the commercial spyware’s impact on human rights and civil liberties.

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