Germany Grants Intelligence Agencies Hacking, Sabotage Powers Amid Security Concerns

Germany is set to significantly expand the operational powers of its intelligence agencies, granting them new authorities for hacking and sabotage. The reforms, approved by the government, aim to strengthen the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) and the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) to better counter perceived threats, particularly from Russia.

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Germany's security structure will be revolutionized.

Under the new legislation, these agencies will be able to conduct operations beyond wiretapping, including infiltrating the residences of suspected spies or terrorists. They will also be permitted to carry out preemptive cyberattacks against adversaries' IT infrastructure. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser described the changes as a "revolution" for Germany's security structure, emphasizing increased use of artificial intelligence and biometric data.

This shift marks a significant departure for Germany, which has historically limited its intelligence services to data collection and analysis due to its past experiences with Nazi-era state violence and the two world wars. The move comes amid growing concerns about national security following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A recent incident involving a drone carrying explosives near a cargo plane at Leipzig Airport further fueled these concerns.

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We can no longer rely on the security of allied intelligence agencies alone.

However, the proposed expansion of powers has drawn criticism. Some lawmakers and civil liberties advocates have raised alarms, drawing parallels to the notorious Gestapo, the Nazi secret police, and warning of potential abuses of power. The legislation is expected to pass the federal parliament after the summer recess.

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We don't want to have a secret police.