The Security Service continued to enjoy widespread surveillance powers, including backdoors into the networks of all internet service providers, sources told the Times of Malta.
The backdoor technology, referred to as a ‘black box’, allowed the Security Service (MSS) to remotely monitor in real-team internet traffic, including on smartphones and other devices, without any judicial oversight, the sources noted.
By law, the MSS is tasked with protecting the national security and, in particular, against threats by organised crime, espionage, terrorism and sabotage, the activities of agents of foreign powers and against actions intended to overthrow or undermine parliamentary democracy by political, industrial or violent means.
The MSS must also safeguard the economic well-being of Malta and ensure public safety, particularly the prevention or detection of serious crime.
Sources familiar with the surveillance capabilities said the MSS had such ‘black box’ devices installed at all ISPs, allowing them to monitor the metadata of a targeted user. A warrant issued by the Home Affairs Minister would be required to conduct such monitoring.
Analysis of metadata can help give insight into…
