The FBI is investigating a longtime consultant for Exxon Mobil regarding his alleged involvement in a hack-and-leak operation that targeted environmental activists and critics of the oil company. This operation reportedly involved mercenary hackers who accessed the email accounts of numerous individuals opposed to Exxon’s practices.
Key Highlights:
Origins of the Operation:
The hacking scheme is believed to have started in late 2015, with the DCI Group, a public affairs firm working for Exxon, compiling a list of targets.
An Israeli private detective was hired to facilitate the hacking, which was later leaked to the media by DCI to support Exxon’s narrative of being politically victimized.
Impact on Legal Proceedings:
The stolen materials disrupted lawsuits against Exxon and other energy companies, echoing strategies used in litigation against the tobacco industry in the 1990s.
Documents obtained through the hack have been cited in ongoing legal battles, including a lawsuit from the city of Honolulu against Exxon.
Reactions from Environmentalists:
Activists, including Kert Davies from the Center for Climate Integrity, expressed that the leaks significantly impacted their preparations for legal actions.
Attorney Matt Pawa reported that the leaked documents were used aggressively against him, altering the course of his career.
Investigative Developments:
The FBI has been looking into the use of mercenary hackers in legal tampering since 2018.
Amit Forlit, the private detective involved, was arrested in London and is contesting extradition to the U.S. on hacking and fraud charges.
Legal Consequences for Associates:
Aviram Azari, a former associate of Forlit, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including conspiracy to hack environmental activists.
While no direct links to Exxon have been established in court, sources suggest Azari was involved in executing the hacks.
Statements from Exxon and DCI:
Exxon has denied any involvement in hacking activities, labeling allegations as conspiracy theories.
DCI confirmed its commitment to legal compliance but did not directly address the allegations.