An Israeli technology company has come under scrutiny after cybersecurity researchers raised concerns that online advertisements were being used to collect users’ data and potentially monitor Starlink internet subscribers across the world.
The company, Discover-Tech, was reportedly involved in suspicious advertising activities targeting users of Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX. Researchers found that the company was among the largest bidders for advertisements displayed to Starlink users in more than 100 countries.
According to investigations by cybersecurity experts, digital advertising systems may expose sensitive information, including users’ IP addresses, device details and approximate locations. Such information could potentially be combined to identify individuals and monitor their online activities without their knowledge.
A report by the University of Toronto’s Citizen Lab also found evidence that targeted advertisements had been used to deliver spyware without requiring users to click on them. The investigation linked Discover-Tech to spyware operations and identified infections involving devices at international news network Al Jazeera.
Following the findings, Google and several other advertising companies reportedly took action to disconnect Discover-Tech from their advertising platforms.
The revelations have also raised concerns in Pakistan, where Starlink has yet to begin commercial operations. Some reports and online discussions have linked the surveillance controversy to questions surrounding the company’s potential launch in the country.
However, no verified evidence has established that Discover-Tech’s activities are responsible for delays in Starlink’s Pakistani launch. Regulatory approval and other commercial requirements remain separate issues.
The case has renewed concerns about digital privacy and highlighted the potential risks of online advertising networks being exploited for surveillance.
