Discover-Tech accused of tracking Starlink users via fake ads

Researchers at TrendAI, a division of Trend Micro, have identified an Israeli company, Discover-Tech, as a primary actor in a large-scale surveillance operation targeting SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet users. The operation allegedly used digital advertising auctions to identify the physical locations and monitor the activities of users in more than 100 countries.

Data analysis suggests that Discover-Tech was a dominant bidder for Starlink-related advertising traffic, including in regions where the satellite service is restricted or illegal. The technique involves manipulating the advertising bidding process to collect user data, which can then be cross-referenced with other sources to track individuals.

Monitoring Starlink users is considered highly valuable for governments because the service bypasses traditional national telecommunications infrastructure, allowing users to circumvent censorship or maintain communications in conflict zones like Ukraine. While investigations by TrendAI, Confiant, and Citizen Lab have linked Discover-Tech to these practices, reports have not confirmed whether the Israeli government directed the operation.