FBI Warned Of Threats By Iranian Cyber Group, Offers $10mn Reward
The FBI has warned that the Iranian cyber group Emennet Pasargad is conducting hack-and-leak operations involving a combination of hacking and theft of data.
The FBI has warned that the Iranian cyber group Emennet Pasargad is conducting hack-and-leak operations involving a combination of hacking and theft of data.
In a statement released on Thursday, the US agency said that since at least 2020 the with cyber-enabled information operations that included an initial intrusion, theft and subsequent leak of data followed by amplification through social media and online forums, and in some cases the deployment of destructive encryption malware.
The FBI added that the Iranian group used false-flag campaigns under the guise of multiple personas like hacktivist or cyber-criminal groups. The company, previously known as Eeleyanet Gostar and Net Peygard Samavat, has regularly rebranded to evade US sanctions
The FBI added that the group’s techniques may be used to target US entities, as was the case during their cyber-enabled information operation to attack the 2020 US Presidential election. Saying that the FBI has identified a destructive cyberattack against a US organization, it underlined that the group remains a threat to the US.
On Wednesday, October 19, the US State Department announced a $10-million reward for information about the group’s operations or its members.
Back in February, the US offered up to $10 million for information leading to the arrest of two of the group's members for trying to influence and interfere with the 2020 presidential election.
In November 2021, the Treasury Department sanctioned six Iranian officials as well as the company for their involvement in the planned cyberattack.
In a move likely to make waves across the region, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) released photos showing its commander General Michael “Erik” Kurilla onboard the west Virginia. It has been described as a rare decision, as the US military seldom, if ever, acknowledges where its ballistic missile subs are operating, particularly when they are stationed near an adversary's shores.
Praising the submarine and its crew, Kurilla called the vessel “the crown jewel of the nuclear triad,” and said that “The West Virginia demonstrates the flexibility, survivability, readiness, and capability of USCENTCOM and USSTRATCOM forces at sea.”
Kurilla's visit may be seen as sending a message to US adversaries in the region, including the Islamic Republic, of Washington's capabilities, including submarines that can carry up to 20 ballistic missiles with multiple warheads.
In June, US officials said attacks by Iranian proxies against bases housing American military personnel in Iraq and Syria were increasing. In August, the US military carried out retaliatory air strikes in Syria against facilities used by groups affiliated with Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC).
Late August, the US Navy prevented an IRGC navy support ship from capturing an unmanned vessel operated by the US 5th Fleet in the Persian Gulf.
