Federal investigators are working to untangle a complex web of alleged cyber espionage targeting prominent U.S. climate activists, with recent developments unfolding in a London courtroom.
At the center of the investigation is Israeli private investigator Amit Forlit, arrested at London's Heathrow Airport. U.S. authorities are seeking his extradition, alleging he orchestrated a sophisticated hacking operation against American environmental advocates. Forlit has previously denied involvement in ordering or funding any hacking activities.
According to statements made in the London court, prosecutors believe Forlit was working for a Washington D.C.-based public affairs firm, which in turn was allegedly representing a major Texas-based oil and gas company. The alleged goal was to discredit activists involved in climate change litigation.
During court proceedings, Forlit's defense team named DCI Group as the public affairs firm and ExxonMobil as the energy company in question. Both companies have denied involvement in any hacking operations when contacted by media. The Justice Department has not formally accused either company of wrongdoing.
The investigation's roots trace back to 2019 when one of Forlit's business associates was arrested in the United States. This associate later pleaded guilty to hacking-related charges and received a prison sentence exceeding six years in 2023. Court documents revealed that stolen information was leaked to media outlets, which ExxonMobil's legal team allegedly used to counter state-level climate investigations.
Matt Pawa, an environmental lawyer and one of the alleged victims, emphasizes the importance of identifying those responsible. "If we have a lot of hacking, then we're not going to live in a very free society because people are going to be afraid to speak out," Pawa stated.
The case continues to develop as British authorities prepare for additional extradition hearings in the coming weeks. Their decision will determine whether Forlit faces charges in the United States, potentially revealing more details about this complex investigation into cyber attacks against climate activists.