Sam Bankman-Fried, the co-founder of cryptocurrency exchange FTX, has been subjected to surveillance software installed on his parents’ mobile phones to ensure he doesn’t violate the conditions of his bail. This move has been approved by a judge, according to reports.

Bankman-Fried’s lawyers requested an extension for the enforcement of his recently revised bail conditions on April 19, citing difficulties in finding the required surveillance software for his parents’ mobile phones. However, the latest reports suggest that the software has been successfully installed.

The FTX co-founder was arrested in Hong Kong in December 2020 at the request of the US government, which accused him of violating anti-money laundering laws. He was released on bail in January, and his conditions have been revised several times since then.

This latest development highlights the increasing use of surveillance technology in the crypto industry, particularly in cases involving legal disputes and regulatory compliance. It also raises concerns about the privacy and security implications of such measures.

The use of surveillance software on mobile devices is not a new phenomenon. Many governments and law enforcement agencies use similar technology to monitor the activities of suspected criminals and terrorists. However, the implementation of such measures in the crypto industry has sparked controversy, as it raises questions about the rights and freedoms of individuals in a decentralized and largely unregulated sector.

The FTX co-founder is a prominent figure in the crypto industry, and his arrest and subsequent legal battles have attracted widespread attention. His company, FTX, has also been in the news recently for its high-profile partnerships with major sports teams and organizations, as well as its involvement in the booming non-fungible token (NFT) market.

The use of surveillance software on Bankman-Fried’s parents’ mobile phones underscores the increasing scrutiny faced by individuals and businesses in the crypto industry. As the sector continues to grow and attract more mainstream attention, it is likely that regulatory and legal challenges will become more common, and the use of surveillance technology may become more widespread as a result.

Overall, this latest development highlights the ongoing tensions between the privacy and security concerns of individuals in the crypto industry and the demands of law enforcement and regulatory agencies. It remains to be seen how these tensions will be resolved, and whether the use of surveillance technology will become more accepted or more controversial in the years ahead.