Google Worried It Couldn't Control How Israel Uses Project Nimbus, Files Reveal

a year ago

Google's internal report reveals concerns about its inability to control how Israel uses its cloud-computing technology under Project Nimbus.
The contract could obligate Google to resist criminal investigations into Israel's use of its technology and requires close collaboration with Israeli security agencies.
A third-party consultant recommended withholding AI and machine learning tools from Israel due to risks of human rights violations.
Legal experts suggest Google's awareness of risks may expose it to liability, especially given Israel's actions in Gaza.
Google's contract with Israel limits its oversight and ability to prevent misuse, with terms favoring the Israeli government.
Project Nimbus involves deep collaboration with Israeli security, including joint drills and intelligence sharing, unprecedented in Google's dealings with other nations.
Google's terms of service for Project Nimbus are amended and confidential, limiting its ability to enforce standard policies.
Legal experts debate Google's potential culpability under international law for aiding human rights violations or war crimes.
Shareholders have pressured Google to conduct due diligence on Project Nimbus's impact on human rights, but the company has resisted independent audits.
The Intercept's reporting highlights the ethical and legal dilemmas faced by tech companies supplying governments accused of atrocities.

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