Microsoft has terminated access to certain cloud and AI services used by a unit of the Israeli military after an internal review revealed that its technology was being used for mass civilian surveillance in violation of its terms of service.
What Happened
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The affected unit, reportedly linked to intelligence operations, had been using Microsoft’s Azure cloud platform to store and analyze massive amounts of civilian data.
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Following media investigations, Microsoft launched an internal inquiry and concluded that the unit’s activities violated its ethical guidelines and contractual agreements.
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The company has “ceased and disabled” the specific cloud and AI subscriptions tied to the surveillance program but emphasized that its broader cybersecurity and defense services for Israel remain unaffected.
Significance
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This marks one of the first times a major U.S. technology company has revoked access to a government or military customer on ethical grounds.
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The move follows growing pressure from human rights advocates and some Microsoft employees to ensure the company’s technology is not used for mass surveillance of civilians.
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Israeli officials have not publicly commented on the suspension, but reports suggest backup measures were taken to secure data ahead of the service cutoff.
Broader Context
The incident highlights a growing tension between tech firms and government clients over the ethical use of advanced technologies. It could set a precedent for how large tech companies enforce their terms of service in situations involving human rights concerns.
