THREAT OF IRANIAN CYBERATTACK ALARMS SECURITY EXPERTS
Threat of a cyberattack from Iran alarms security experts
Cybersecurity professionals are warning of an increased risk of hacks and digital attacks emanating from Iran that everyone needs to prepare for amid the escalating Israel–Iran war.
Potential U.S. targets include critical infrastructure, American elected officials and media outlets, according to Theresa Payton, former White House chief information officer in President George W. Bush’s administration.
Ms. Payton, CEO at cyber firm Fortalice Solutions, said entities within the energy, finance and transportation sectors need to be especially vigilant.
“Iran might first target energy and finance for maximum disruption — public pain points that cripple daily life,” Ms. Payton told The Washington Times. “Remote access points for maintenance are prime targets, as Iran exploits unpatched systems. With Iran, if they have a successful cyber intrusion, they may want to make a loud, visible blow.”
Ms. Payton said people should be on the lookout for artificial intelligence-enabled phishing campaigns designed to breach sensitive communications and industrial control systems.
The Islamic Republic’s goal is to sow chaos and ramp up geopolitical tension, according to Ms. Payton, who said the private sector should proactively contact the federal government to better defend their networks.
“Businesses must contact FBI InfraGard for tailored threat briefings and deploy zero-trust defenses now,” Ms. Payton said. “Every American should verify suspicious emails and texts to thwart Iran’s digital playbook.”
The State Department is also requesting Americans’ help to disrupt Iranian cyberattackers.
On the eve of Israel’s strikes against Iran last week, the State Department posted a message on X requesting tips and offering a $10 million reward for information that helps hunt down hackers linked to the Iranian regime, including “Mr. Soul.”
…
THREAT OF IRANIAN CYBERATTACK ALARMS SECURITY EXPERTSRead More »
