CNN —
Iranian hackers targeted a former US official two years before breaching Donald Trump’s campaign, using a phishing scheme to access sensitive information.
The hackers posed as the official, sending emails to US-based Iran critics under the premise of reviewing a supposed book about nuclear programs.
The email contained a malicious link that could have granted hackers access to the targets’ computers, prompting the FBI to be notified.
Further investigations revealed a larger hacking operation by an Iranian group targeting former officials from both the Trump and Biden administrations.
This effort highlights Iran’s aggressive cyber tactics ahead of the 2024 presidential election, creating concerns for US intelligence agencies.
Hackers and assassins
Iranian cyber activities extend beyond espionage, with hackers aiding in potential kidnapping and assassination plots, as revealed by UK intelligence.
US officials fear Iran’s unpredictable behavior in cyberspace and its potential impact on national security, intensifying efforts to counter Iranian influence.