Two Democratic senators and several environmental groups are pushing for investigations and accountability in response to a report revealing that a lobbyist for Exxon Mobil was linked to a hack-and-leak operation targeting critics of the oil company. According to Reuters, over 500 email accounts of environmentalists and their allies were hacked between 2015 and 2018 to undermine climate change investigations and legal actions against Exxon. The FBI reportedly investigated Exxon’s consultant, the DCI Group, in connection with the hacks and subsequent leak of emails to the media. Exxon denied involvement, labeling the claims as “conspiracy theories,” and condemned any hacking if it occurred. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse and Ron Wyden expressed concerns about the cyberespionage and urged the Department of Justice to investigate. The Justice Department is currently investigating mercenary hacking, with a key player set to be released from prison soon. The London extradition trial of another individual connected to the investigation is scheduled to begin in January. Some hacking victims worry about potential interference by the Trump administration, given his ties to the oil industry. Environmental groups are calling for a thorough investigation, suggesting possible ties to Exxon.
In a recent cyberespionage investigation, concerning ties between a high-profile corporation and mercenary hackers have come to light. The Union of Concerned Scientists’ Kathy Mulvey has called for a thorough examination of any potential involvement by Exxon Mobil in this operation, citing “increasingly clear links” that demand further scrutiny.
The Canadian watchdog group Citizen Lab identified a list of organizations targeted by these hackers in 2020, which included prominent names such as SKD Knickerbocker, a public affairs firm known for its work with Democratic politicians and progressive causes. Reuters’ investigative efforts have now uncovered more than a dozen additional groups ensnared in this surveillance operation, shedding light on the extent of the breach.
Among the victims of this cyberattack are advocacy organizations like Oil Change International, Earthworks, and the Working Families Party, all of whom have expressed shock and disbelief at being targeted in such a manner. SKD Knickerbocker, now operating as SKD, has asserted that their systems remain uncompromised, maintaining that no unauthorized access took place.
Elizabeth Bast, Executive Director of Oil Change International, condemned the hacking allegations as a reflection of the industry’s ongoing efforts to thwart climate change advocacy. She emphasized the urgent need for governmental intervention to curb the activities of these rogue entities and prevent further breaches.
Earthworks, a Washington-based environmental and human rights group, questioned the motives behind targeting an organization dedicated to safeguarding the planet. The Working Families Party echoed similar sentiments, with political director Joe Dinkin demanding a thorough investigation into Exxon’s potential collusion with the hackers, alongside a public apology for their actions.
The unfolding saga underscores the vulnerability of organizations committed to driving positive change, as they face threats from malicious actors seeking to undermine their efforts. As the investigation progresses, the revelations of corporate espionage and collusion with hackers serve as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by cyber threats in today’s interconnected world.
The urgent call for accountability and transparency in these matters resonates across the affected organizations, as they seek answers and justice in the wake of this far-reaching cyberespionage operation. With the spotlight now firmly on the intersection of corporate interests and cyber intrusions, the need for rigorous oversight and safeguards to protect against such breaches has never been more apparent.
This ongoing investigation serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the critical importance of vigilance and resilience in the face of evolving cyber threats that continue to pose risks to organizations dedicated to advancing social and environmental causes. As the implications of this cyberespionage operation reverberate through the affected groups, the quest for accountability and justice remains paramount in safeguarding against future incursions into the digital realm.
