An ineffective “Big Brother”: Israeli COVID-19 technological tracing strategy

Purpose: This study examines Israel’s unique use of the General Security Service (GSS) for COVID-19 contact tracing, analyzing its effectiveness and implications for public health and civil liberties. Design/methodology/approach: Using a case study framework, the research evaluates Israel’s dual approach: the compulsory GSS “Tool” and the voluntary HAMAGEN app. A comprehensive matrix is introduced to assess legal, democratic, socio-economic and epidemiological factors. Findings: The study reveals that the GSS geo-tracking proved ineffective in curbing COVID-19, leading to privacy infringements, public distrust, economic harm from false quarantines and limited epidemiological benefits. Social implications: This interdisciplinary analysis highlights key lessons for global crisis policies, advocating for proportionality, transparency, judicial oversight and minimally invasive technologies. The findings serve as a cautionary tale, illustrating the risks of surveillance-driven health interventions. Originality/value: As the only democracy to deploy its secret service for pandemic management, Israel offers a critical case study. This interdisciplinary analysis highlights key lessons for global crisis policies, advocating for proportionality, transparency, judicial oversight and minimally invasive technologies. The findings serve as a cautionary tale, illustrating the risks of surveillance-driven health interventions.