U.S. government agencies frequently engage in legally sanctioned hacking of devices such as phones and emails, for purposes like wiretapping suspects or monitoring for security threats. However, there’s growing interest in targeting Internet of Things (IoT) devices, such as Wi-Fi-enabled security cameras.
Toka, an Israeli startup supported by Andreessen Horowitz, focuses on this niche. The company gained attention in 2022 when Haaretz reported its claims of being able to access and erase security camera footage. Toka is now hiring for roles aimed at expanding its work with U.S. government agencies, including a "Client Director USA" to boost sales in defense and national security sectors, and a customer success engineer to assist with deployment and training. Both roles prioritize candidates with federal law enforcement experience.
Toka says it works exclusively with military, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and allied nations, ensuring compliance with local laws. Since its founding in 2018, it has raised $37.5 million from investors like a16z and Dell Capital. Reports indicate Toka has explored partnerships with U.S. Special Forces and intelligence agencies.
While hacking IoT devices is commonly associated with conflict zones—such as Hezbollah's warning to Lebanese citizens about Israeli surveillance—the technology is increasingly relevant elsewhere. For instance, a16z’s Ben Horowitz recently tried donating Toka’s software to the Las Vegas police, though the offer was declined.
Unlike controversial spyware firms like NSO Group, Toka limits its clientele to governments with strong civil liberties and low corruption. Despite attending a UAE conference in 2021, Toka denies having clients there and closely monitors its international activities. Its advisory board includes prominent figures such as Yale professor Peter Schuck and former IMF official Jacob Frenkel, who help evaluate potential clients and ensure ethical practices.
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