Information Security Manager Indicted in Massive Israeli Cyberattack Scheme
Michael Bar, an Israeli information security manager, has been indicted for orchestrating extensive cyberattacks against 26 companies and individuals using AI-generated malware.
Michael Bar, a 43-year-old information security manager from Ashkelon, has been indicted at the Rishon LeZion Magistrate's Court for orchestrating extensive cyberattacks against 26 Israeli companies and private individuals. Filed by attorneys Elad Dayan and Chavi Lerner from the cyber department of the State Attorney's Office, the indictment details a campaign lasting from 2019 until his arrest in April 2026.
According to the charges, Bar utilized artificial intelligence tools to develop sophisticated malware that allowed him to remotely compromise employee and corporate computers. The malware harvested passwords, activated webcams without user consent, and monitored targets even when their devices were powered off. Investigators discovered that he secretly recorded intimate images of female employees and their minor daughters, organizing the media into dedicated folders by name.
Bar's activities came to light when a targeted company launched an investigation. In a bizarre twist, representatives from the Israel National Cyber Directorate contacted Bar in his official capacity as security manager to brief him on the breach. Bar exploited his position to conceal his involvement, continuing to deploy advanced malicious software against additional firms while supposedly assisting with the response.
The State Attorney's Office has requested that Bar be held in detention until the conclusion of legal proceedings. He faces multiple serious charges, including unauthorized computer intrusion, malware deployment, severe privacy violations, and theft.
