Shalev Hulio, the former CEO of NSO Group, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Once known as “Israel’s cyber bad boy,” Hulio’s company faced backlash and was blacklisted by the U.S. government due to its Pegasus spyware being used for human rights abuses. However, Hulio has since rebounded and is now involved in various cybersecurity ventures.
In November, Hulio announced his new startup, Dream Security, which focuses on AI-based defense of critical infrastructure. Additionally, he was identified as an investor in IntelEye, a company that monitors the dark web. While IntelEye officials denied Hulio’s ownership stake, they confirmed his involvement in the company’s activities.
Hulio’s career shift reflects a move from offensive cybersecurity work to the defensive side. He aims to use his expertise to protect against cyber threats rather than exploit them. This change is evident in the founding of “The Institute,” an initiative at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev dedicated to AI training and research. The Institute aims to strengthen Israel’s position in the tech world and has garnered support from top-tier Israeli politicians and global firms like Microsoft and General Motors.
It is worth noting that Hulio’s ventures, including NSO, Dream, and IntelEye, all have ties to the Israeli government and support its war efforts. NSO’s Pegasus software was used to track down Israeli hostages, while Dream’s founding coincided with Hamas’s attack on the Gaza border, showcasing Israel’s resilience. IntelEye engages in offensive intelligence work, assisting law enforcement agencies in locating and shutting down terrorist elements.
The launch of The Institute initially raised questions due to its alleged partnership with Israel Defense Forces’ elite cyberspying unit, 8200. However, references to 8200 were later removed from the announcement. The Institute aims to bring together AI experts, run training programs, and collaborate with industry actors to bolster Israel’s technological education.
Hulio’s involvement in The Institute and his collaborations with other tech leaders demonstrate his transition from a public villain to a cyberhero and leader in Israel’s technological education. His partnership with Dovi Frances, co-founder of venture capital firm Group 11, further solidifies his position in the AI industry.
IntelEye’s participation in Israel’s war effort has made headlines, particularly its role in tracking down the alleged creators of the Hamas-aligned Gaza Now Telegram channel. The company’s work led to a coordinated effort by government agencies to shut down the channel. However, there have been conflicting reports regarding the outcome of IntelEye’s actions, with some suggesting misidentification of the individuals involved.
Despite controversies surrounding Hulio’s ventures and their ties to the Israeli government, supporters argue that he and his colleagues are dedicated to what is best for Israel. They view Hulio and Frances as “super Zionists” who prioritize the country’s well-being.
In conclusion, Shalev Hulio’s journey from a controversial figure at NSO Group to a leader in Israeli AI reflects his commitment to transforming the cybersecurity landscape. Through his involvement in Dream Security, IntelEye, and The Institute, Hulio aims to defend critical infrastructure, assist law enforcement agencies, and strengthen Israel’s position in the tech world. While his ventures have faced scrutiny, they continue to attract support from influential figures and global companies.
