Israeli man used AI, ChatGPT in covert tasks while spying for Iran, prosecution indictment reveals
Prosecutors say the 25-year-old from Baka al-Gharbiya carried out missions for an Iranian handler, received cryptocurrency payments, used AI tools, and shared details about his workplace security.
A 25-year-old Israeli man, Mohammad Khalaf, has been accused of spying for Iran while using artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT, according to Haifa District prosecutors. Khalaf, a security guard at a youth boarding school, allegedly carried out assignments for an Iranian handler via a Telegram group. He received payments through a cryptocurrency wallet and used AI to help complete tasks.
On September 6, the Shin Bet arrested Khalaf, who has remained in custody since. During questioning, Khalaf admitted to all allegations, including his contact with the handler, the assignments he completed, and the money he received. The investigation found that Khalaf used a Telegram Premium subscription and transferred money in cryptocurrency to gain the handler's trust.
He also traveled to a location near a tool store in Kiryat Haim to photograph and film a hidden Samsung Galaxy phone as instructed by the handler. Khalaf allegedly provided the handler with details about his work as a security guard, including security procedures, night shifts, and camera positioning. The prosecution argues that Khalaf's actions pose a significant threat to state security and the public, and therefore he should remain in custody until legal proceedings are concluded.
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