Hackers Target World Cup with FBI Drone Data

An Iran-linked hacking group, identified as Handala, has asserted that it maintained access to FBI drone surveillance systems for an extended period. The group claims to have obtained imagery and intelligence from drones reportedly used in counterterrorism operations, including facial recognition and license plate identification capabilities.

Following this alleged breach, Handala issued a direct warning concerning the security of the FIFA World Cup events in the United States. The hackers suggested that drone vulnerabilities could pose a threat to team buses. This statement has gained attention given the FBI's deployment of drones for monitoring unauthorized aircraft around World Cup stadiums.

While Handala has made several claims against American and Israeli entities, including compromising the FBI Director's email and breaching California Water Service, the authenticity of their latest evidence is under scrutiny. One video presented as proof was identified by SITE Intelligence Group as unrelated promotional material from December 2024, originally used by a US police department.

Despite disputed evidence, concerns persist due to Handala's alignment with Iranian interests and the Justice Department's prior warnings about increased Iranian cyber operations. The State Department offers rewards up to $10 million for information on group members.