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Italy Seeks Full Data Control in Potential Starlink Deal, Musk Adviser States

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Italy is considering a deal with Elon Musk’s Starlink for secure satellite communications, with a strong emphasis on maintaining full control over its data. The potential five-year agreement, valued at 1.5 billion euros ($1.6 billion), would provide encrypted communications for Italy’s government, diplomats, and defense personnel in sensitive and high-risk areas.

The move has sparked criticism from opposition parties, who question whether Italy should rely on a company owned by U.S. billionaire Elon Musk for handling such critical communications. Starlink, a subsidiary of Musk’s SpaceX aerospace business, operates 6,700 active satellites in low-Earth orbit, positioning it as a leading player in satellite telecommunications.

Andrea Stroppa, an adviser for Musk’s aerospace ventures, reassured the public during an interview with Italian state broadcaster RAI, stating that Italian institutions would retain full control over their data. He emphasized that while the technology would be provided by a U.S.-owned company, Italy’s national interests would be safeguarded. The discussions began before Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni assumed office in October 2022.

Meloni, who has a well-documented positive relationship with Musk, dismissed concerns raised by opposition leaders, assuring that the government’s evaluation of the project would remain impartial.

 

Global Operation Dismantles ‘Ghost’ Cybercrime Platform, 51 Arrested

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An international law enforcement operation has successfully taken down the encrypted communication platform, Ghost, which was widely used by criminal organizations for large-scale drug trafficking and money laundering, Europol announced on Wednesday. The operation led to the arrest of 51 suspects from various countries, and officials expect additional arrests in the coming days.

The Ghost platform had become notorious among organized crime networks due to its advanced security features, which made it a preferred tool for illegal activities. Europol hailed the platform’s dismantling as a major victory in the global fight against organized crime. “This was truly a global game of cat and mouse, and today, the game is up,” said Jean-Philippe Lecouffe, Europol’s Deputy Executive Director.

The extensive operation also prevented multiple threats to life, dismantled a drug production lab in Australia, and resulted in the global seizure of weapons, drugs, and over €1 million in cash. Catherine De Bolle, Europol’s Executive Director, described Ghost as “a lifeline for serious organized crime,” and emphasized that the operation demonstrated that no criminal network is beyond the reach of international law enforcement.

Authorities from Australia, Canada, France, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the United States collaborated in this operation, highlighting the global commitment to combat organized crime. As investigations continue, more illegal activities are expected to be disrupted in the coming weeks.