Multiple explosions in Lebanon on September 17 and 18, 2024, resulted in the deaths of 12 people and injuries to over 2,700. The attacks, believed to target members of the militant group Hezbollah, involved detonated pagers and walkie-talkies.
Israel has neither confirmed nor denied any role in the explosions, however, according to a report in New York Times, 12 current and former defense and intelligence officials who were briefed on the attack say that the Israelis were behind it, describing the operation as complex and long in the making.
This incident highlights the vulnerability of supply chains to sabotage. In the past, the U.S. National Security Agency has been known to intercept computer hardware and insert malware or surveillance tools before delivering it to foreign buyers.
Hezbollah chief asked followers to stop using mobile phones
Hezbollah's increased use of pagers after the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023 was likely an attempt to evade Israeli surveillance. By shifting to less technologically advanced communication devices, the group hoped to avoid being tracked through their phones.
The widespread use of smartphones has made it easier than ever for governments, companies, and individuals to track people's movements. This can be done through network location data, app tracking, and even built-in features like GPS and Bluetooth. While this can be beneficial for purposes like finding missing persons or combating terrorism, it also raises privacy concerns.
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