Internet mapping and research outfit Censys reveals state-based abuse, harassment

Censys Inc. warns that some state-backed actors are attempting to exploit its research access program by posing as academics, noting vetting challenges, language barriers, and instances where “universities are being used to proxy offensive government operations,” with some applicants exhibiting abusive behavior. In response, Censys introduced multiple access tiers with delayed or limited data while continuing to support legitimate researchers. The paper also outlines the platform’s growth (e.g., visibility into 794M IPv4 services) and asserts higher data accuracy than rivals like Shodan, Fofa, ZoomEye, and Netlas.