# US trial may expose who paid hackers to target Exxon's climate critics

A US trial is set to reveal who financed hackers that targeted activists and critics of ExxonMobil's climate stance. The case could uncover ties between corporate interests and cyberattacks aimed at silencing environmental advocates. This matters because it tests legal accountability for using hacking to suppress climate criticism.

**Importance:** 4/5

## Sources

### World
- [The Guardian World](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/ng-interactive/2026/jul/15/climate-activists-exxon-hired-hackers-trial) — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 10:00:53 GMT