GCHQ hacking does not breach human rights, security tribunal rules

Investigatory powers tribunal says computer network exploitation, such as activating cameras on devices without permission, is legal

Hacking of computers, networks and smartphones in the UK or abroad by GCHQ staff does not breach human rights, a security tribunal has ruled.

A panel of five members of the investigatory powers tribunal (IPT) decided on Friday that computer network exploitation (CNE), which may involve remotely activating microphones and cameras on electronic devices without the owners' knowledge, is legal.