Oslo, Norway — The founders of two data centers, Troll and Tydal Data Centre, have filed a lawsuit against the Norwegian Tax Administration. The dispute centers on the tax authority’s demand to inspect their mobile phones as part of a broader investigation. The founders describe the request as an overreach of authority and a violation of privacy norms.
According to a statement from the founders, the tax authority’s move represents an unprecedented intrusion into personal devices. They argue that the demand lacks legal justification and sets a dangerous precedent for future investigations. The lawsuit seeks to block the tax authority from accessing the phones and to clarify the boundaries of such inspections.
The data centers, located in central Norway, have grown into key players in the region’s digital infrastructure. Their founders, known for their public advocacy on privacy issues, have long criticized government overreach. This case marks a new phase in their pushback against what they see as intrusive practices by state agencies.
A spokesperson for the tax authority declined to comment on the ongoing legal dispute. The agency has previously defended its inspection methods as necessary to prevent tax evasion. However, the founders argue that the current approach lacks proportionality and threatens fundamental privacy rights.
The lawsuit will be heard in Oslo District Court next month. Legal experts expect the case to set important precedents regarding digital privacy and state authority in Norway.
Source: digi.no