Is the Phone Spyware Scandal in Greece About to Explode? Four Face Court Today!

This article explores the complex and troubling revelations surrounding Greece's surveillance scandal, often referred to as Greece's Watergate. It reveals how spyware, specifically the Predator software, targeted the mobile phones of key government figures, journalists, and military officers, raising severe concerns about privacy, political accountability, and the integrity of democratic institutions.

Last updated: 24 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The scandal involves the use of Predator spyware to surveil politicians and journalists.
• Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis faces criticism for alleged cover-ups and lack of accountability.
• No high-ranking officials have been charged, raising concerns about political interference.
• Recent laws have legalised surveillance under strict conditions but lack transparency for citizens.
• The European Parliament is investigating the use of spyware in Greece.

The Genesis of the Scandal

The roots of the spyware scandal in Greece can be traced back to the summer of 2022, when Nikos Androulakis, then a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) and current leader of the socialist party Pasok, received a warning from the European Parliament’s IT experts. They informed him that a malicious text message had been sent to his phone. This message contained spyware that could infiltrate his device, accessing messages, camera, and microphone without his consent.

Androulakis discovered that he was also being tracked for "national security reasons" by the Greek National Intelligence Service (EYP) just a month after Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis took office in July 2019. Mitsotakis placed EYP directly under his control, which raised alarms as the agency became embroiled in a scandal that would call into question the integrity of the government.

The Role of Predator Spyware

Predator spyware, marketed by the Athens-based Israeli company Intellexa, has been at the centre of this controversy. It has the capability to access a device's messages, camera, and microphone, effectively turning the target’s phone against them. Reports indicate that Predator was used to surveil at least 87 individuals, including government ministers and senior military officers.

Despite the widespread implications of the spyware's use, the government claimed that the coincidence of targets between EYP and Predator did not indicate a coordinated strategy. They asserted that no law enforcement agency had employed Predator, which was illegal in Greece at the time. However, this narrative has been met with scepticism, especially as a new law was passed in 2022 to legalise the state’s use of surveillance software under stringent conditions.

The Political Fallout

The implications of the scandal have been profound. After the revelations emerged, there were resignations at the highest levels of the EYP, including its head, Panagiotis Kontoleon, and the Prime Minister's nephew, Grigoris Dimitriadis. However, critics argue that these resignations were insufficient and that a deeper investigation was needed into the possible connections between the spyware and government officials.

Thanasis Koukakis, a financial reporter who has been personally affected by the surveillance, emphasised that the scandal has transitioned from a political issue to an institutional crisis, undermining both the judiciary and independent authorities. He noted that no serving minister, judge, or military officer had filed complaints despite being targeted, leading to questions about the extent of the government’s involvement.

The Legal Landscape

In the wake of the scandal, the Greek government introduced new legislation concerning the confidentiality of communications. While the new laws are intended to provide more safeguards for law enforcement, they have raised concerns about citizens’ rights. Critics argue that these changes effectively prevent individuals from learning whether they had been under surveillance in the past.

The lack of accountability for those in power has sparked accusations that the government is avoiding a thorough investigation into the surveillance of its own officials. This sentiment was compounded when authorities raided Intellexa's offices in Athens but left without any substantial findings.

Public Trust and International Scrutiny

The wiretapping scandal has not only garnered national attention but has also attracted international scrutiny. The European Parliament formed a special Committee of Inquiry to investigate the use of Pegasus and similar surveillance spyware across Europe, with Greece being a prime focus. Former MEP Sophie in 't Veld, the committee's rapporteur, has publicly stated that the Greek government has made significant efforts to conceal the truth, further eroding public trust.

The chilling effect of this scandal has been palpable, with many journalists and political figures expressing fears over their security. The pervasive sense of distrust has stifled scrutiny and critical voices within Greece, raising alarms about the implications for democracy.

The Current Legal Proceedings

As of now, the case against two Israelis and two Greeks linked to the marketing of Predator spyware is set to be heard by a low-ranking judge. They face misdemeanor charges, but the broader implications of the scandal remain largely unaddressed, particularly concerning the lack of accountability for senior officials who may have facilitated or overlooked the surveillance activities.

The legal proceedings come amidst ongoing debates about the role of intelligence agencies in democratic societies and the balance between national security and individual privacy rights. Critics argue that the government's reluctance to pursue high-level accountability only exacerbates the crisis of confidence in public institutions.

What Happens Next?

Moving forward, the Greek public and international observers will be watching closely to see how the government responds to this scandal. The ongoing legal case will likely shape the future of surveillance practices within Greece, as well as influence public sentiment towards the ruling party. Calls for transparency and accountability are expected to intensify, particularly from opposition parties and civil rights organisations.

As the investigation unfolds, it remains crucial for citizens to remain informed about their rights and the implications of surveillance on their daily lives. The scandal has raised fundamental questions about privacy, security, and the integrity of democratic institutions in Greece.

FAQs

What is Predator spyware?

Predator spyware is a sophisticated surveillance software marketed by the Israeli company Intellexa. It allows unauthorised access to a user's device, including messages, camera, and microphone.

Who was targeted by the spyware in Greece?

The spyware targeted various individuals, including government ministers, senior military officers, judges, and journalists. Notably, Nikos Androulakis, a key political figure, was among the first victims.

What actions has the Greek government taken in response to the scandal?

The Greek government has introduced new laws regarding communication confidentiality and has faced criticism for its lack of accountability and thorough investigations into the surveillance of its own officials.

Are any government officials facing charges related to the scandal?

As of now, no high-ranking officials have been charged in connection with the use of Predator spyware, leading to accusations of a cover-up and political interference.

What is the current state of the legal proceedings?

The legal proceedings involve four individuals facing misdemeanor charges linked to the marketing of Predator spyware. The case is set to be heard by a low-ranking judge, with significant public interest in the outcome.

The Greece surveillance scandal raises critical concerns about privacy, governmental accountability, and the protection of democratic institutions. How can citizens safeguard their rights in an increasingly monitored world? #GreeceSpyScandal #PrivacyRights #DemocracyInDanger