Document Reveals New Zealand Spied on Trade Partners Using NSA Tools

The XKeyscore surveillance software was used to intercept the electronic communications of the high-profile candidates from Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico and South Korea, among other states.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — New Zealand Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB) used United States National Security Agency (NSA) XKeyscore surveillance software to spy on World Trade Organization (WTO) leader candidates, a document revealed by NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden said.

According to website The Intercept, which published the document Sunday, the spyware was used to intercept the electronic communications of the high-profile candidates from Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico and South Korea, among other states.

The surveillance operation was intended to assist New Zealand Trade Minister Tim Groser in becoming the new WTO head, according to The Intercept. The Brazilian candidate Roberto Azevedo got the job in 2013.

The XKeyscore software analyzes Internet browsing sessions, emails and online chats of target entities, according to explanations published by The Intercept.

In 2013, Edward Snowden leaked information about global electronic surveillance programs conducted by the US government, including eavesdropping on US citizens and foreign leaders. Snowden is accused in the US of theft of government property, unauthorized communication of national defense information and willful communication of classified documents to an unauthorized person. Each of the three charges carries a maximum prison term of 10 years.

On August 1, 2013, Russian authorities granted Snowden temporary asylum in Russia for one year. In August 2014, the whistleblower received a three-year residence permit in Russia.