Microsoft has blocked access to certain cloud and AI services for an Israeli military intelligence unit after an internal investigation found its technology was reportedly used to store surveillance data on Palestinians.
The decision affects subscriptions linked to Israel’s Ministry of Defence, including Azure cloud storage used by Unit 8200, which intelligence reports suggest collected data from phone calls in Gaza and the West Bank.
Brad Smith, Microsoft’s president, reiterated the company’s firm stance against enabling mass surveillance of civilians, stating in a blog post, “We do not provide technology to facilitate mass surveillance of civilians. Microsoft’s standard terms of service prohibit the use of our technology for mass surveillance.”
The inquiry followed reports by The Guardian, which spurred Microsoft to act since privacy rules prevent them from accessing customer data without external alerts. Smith acknowledged, “Without that reporting, we wouldn’t have known to look into the matter.”
This move comes amid employee protests and activism over Microsoft’s contracts with Israeli forces, including demonstrations at its 50th anniversary event and a sit-in at Smith’s office earlier this year. The company has also dismissed several employees connected to these protests.
Microsoft declined to comment further on the ongoing review. The case displays the growing pressure on tech firms to uphold ethical standards in conflict zones.