Microsoft halts Azure services to Israel defense ministry
Microsoft said this week it has stopped providing certain Azure cloud and AI services to Israel’s Ministry of Defense after independent reporting alleged Unit 8200 used Microsoft platforms to store and analyze recordings from millions of cellphone calls of Palestinians. The Guardian-led investigation claimed large volumes of intercepted-call data (reported as up to 8,000 terabytes) were stored in Microsoft data centers in the Netherlands and Ireland; Microsoft said it found evidence supporting elements of that reporting, has disabled specific subscriptions, informed IMOD, and is continuing a review while reports say the data may be moved to Amazon Web Services.
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Microsoft blocks Israel from using services linked to surveillance of Palestinians
New information:
- Microsoft announced it would 'halt and disable' some subscriptions and services used by the Israel Ministry of Defense while it reviews compliance with its terms of service and AI Code of Conduct.
- Reporting by The Guardian and partners alleges Unit 8200 stored recordings of millions of Palestinian cellphone calls—reportedly up to 8,000 terabytes—on Microsoft Azure, with storage located in data centers in the Netherlands and Ireland.
- Intelligence sources cited by The Guardian told reporters Unit 8200 may plan to transfer the data to Amazon Web Services; Microsoft said its current review is ongoing and previously had said an earlier review found no evidence of misuse.