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RELATED: Iran’s Spies Targeted Americans Online
SEE ALSO: Iran Spies Targeted U.S. Citizens Online
Federal authorities moved today to silence online assets linked to Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS), seizing four web domains allegedly used to conduct a long-running campaign of hacking and psychological warfare against targets inside the United States. This action was taken as part of an effort to disrupt The Handala Hack, a malicious cyber activity.
The operation, revealed in court documents unsealed today in the Middle District of Alabama, confirms that Iranian intelligence wasn’t just after data – they were actively trying to manipulate and intimidate people on US soil. Details remain scarce, but the affidavit supporting the seizure suggests a sophisticated effort to surveil, compromise, and potentially harm individuals through online means. According to a Press Release Number released by the Department of Justice, the operation aimed to disrupt Iranian cyber enabled psychological operations. The Attorney General Pamela has made clear the DOJ’s commitment to countering these threats.
While the DOJ is tight-lipped on specific targets, the move signals a growing concern over transnational repression— foreign governments reaching onto American soil, not with bullets, but with keystrokes. This isn’t just about stolen information; it’s about a foreign power attempting to control the narrative and silence dissent within our borders. The seized domains represent just a piece of a much larger operation still under investigation. The DOJ’s efforts are guided by principles outlined in the Justice Manual, ensuring due process and adherence to legal standards. Authorities are investigating potential attempts to Detonate Explosive Devices and Traffic Nuclear Materials, though no immediate threat has been confirmed. The investigation also involves scrutiny of potential targeting of Government Officials.
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Individuals seeking assistance related to cybercrime or potential targeting can visit the Department of Justice website at Find Help or contact Public Affairs Direct. For general inquiries, the Justice Main Switchboard is available. The DOJ’s Organizational Chart is available on their website, and information about their various offices, including the Baltimore Special Agent office, can be found under Our Offices. The investigation has revealed that Asif Raza Merchant and Ibrahim Kayumi were key figures involved in the operation. The total value of the assets seized is estimated at $250,000, and the potential damage caused by this cyber campaign is estimated at over $10 million. Those convicted face 20 Years in Prison, as outlined in Act Data. The DOJ has announced that National Sentenced individuals will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. You can view the Main Menu on the DOJ website for more information.
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