Internet networks at cafes and popular rest houses scattered across the coast of the Gaza Strip have greatly benefited Mustafa al-Sayed (pseudonym), 29, from the Jabaliya refugee camp north of Gaza City. Since 2015, Sayed has been carrying out hacking and piracy activities along with a group of amateurs. By masking their IP addresses, they avoid being pursued by security services in Gaza and thus being held accountable.
Sayed received training courses in the field of information technology and programming seven years ago and specialized in what is known as “ethical hacking.” He told Al-Monitor that, along with a group of eight people, his goal is to make a profit — especially given the current economic conditions, the high unemployment rates among young people and the scarcity of job opportunities in the besieged enclave.
