After Israel controversy, Microsoft now lets employees report tech abuse
What's the story
In the wake of global criticism over its alleged role in Israel's military surveillance, Microsoft has launched a new feature in its Integrity Portal. The "Trusted Technology Review" section lets employees confidentially report any misuse of Microsoft's technologies. The move comes after months of backlash from employee groups and human rights advocates over allegations that its cloud and AI technologies were used by Israel to store and analyze intercepted Palestinian communications during the Gaza conflict.
Reporting mechanism
Employees can raise ethical concerns
Microsoft President Brad Smith announced the new feature in an internal memo on November 5. He explained that it would allow employees to raise ethical or policy concerns related to the development or deployment of Microsoft's products. The process will be similar to existing systems for reporting workplace misconduct, legal issues, or data security breaches. Smith assured workers that reports could be made anonymously under Microsoft's non-retaliation policy.
Investigation findings
Microsoft terminated defense contracts in wake of probe
In September, Microsoft confirmed elements of a Guardian investigation linking Azure cloud services to Israel's surveillance network. Following that internal probe, Smith had announced that Microsoft had terminated specific subscriptions and services tied to Israel's Ministry of Defense, including certain AI and cloud storage tools. "While our review is ongoing, we have found evidence that supports elements of The Guardian's reporting," Smith wrote at the time.
Ethical commitment
New system aims to bolster Microsoft's human rights due diligence
Smith said the new measures are part of a broader effort to strengthen Microsoft's governance and human-rights due diligence before signing contracts involving sensitive technology. The "Trusted Technology Review" system aims to ensure employees can voice ethical concerns without fear, especially in projects involving surveillance, defense, or large-scale data analysis. It builds on Microsoft's existing framework covering workplace behavior, digital safety, and legal compliance.
Accountability measures
Regaining employee trust after criticism
The move also seems to be an attempt at regaining internal trust after a recent wave of criticism from employee groups like "No Azure for Apartheid." The group and several activists had called on the company to conduct a transparent audit of all military-related partnerships. While Microsoft has consistently denied facilitating mass surveillance of civilians, the controversy has sparked wider discussions within the tech industry about corporate accountability in wartime.