FBI Warns U.S. Energy, Defense Firms To Be On Alert From A Sophisticated Iranian Hacking Operation
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has warned U.S. energy and defense firms to stay alert for a sophisticated Iranian hacking operation. Other than energy and defense firms, the attack might target educational institutions as well.
Reuters obtained FBI's confidential "Flash" report that provided technical details about the malicious software and techniques which could be used in the attacks. It also contained advices on thwarting the hackers.
According to the document, hackers generally launch their attacks form two IP addresses located in Iran. According to security agency, Cylance, Iran's government might be behind the campaign.
Tehran is reportedly increasing investment in its cyber capabilities since 2010. The effort started after its nuclear program was hit by the Stuxnet computer virus - believed to be initiated by United States and Israel.
"They are good and have a lot of talent in the country," said Dave Kennedy, CEO of TrustedSEC LLC. "They are definitely a serious threat, no question."
According to a report by Bloomberg Businessweek, Iranian hacker activists were responsible for a devastating February 2014 attack on casino operator Las Vegas Sands Corp, which crippled thousands of servers by wiping them with destructive malware. The report said hackers sought to punish Sands CEO Sheldon Adelson for comments he made about detonating a nuclear bomb in Iran.
