FBI Says Pro-Iran Hacking Group Did Not Access Its Drones Monitoring the World Cup
Handala asserted access to FBI unmanned aircraft systems monitoring the tournament. The bureau called the claims false and said it remains prepared to protect venues.
Fox NewsThe FBI stated on Sunday that claims by the pro-Iran hacking group Handala of access to its unmanned aircraft systems monitoring the FIFA World Cup are false. Handala asserted it had gained access to the FBI drone program and was watching footage the bureau is taking while monitoring games from above.
The group said it had access “for months” to FBI drone systems, giving it visibility into “every image and every suspect” captured by the agency’s drones.
U.S. soil on Friday. Handala circulated a statement saying, “Better tighten your World Cup security, we don’t like some of those teams at all. ” The FBI said it was aware of the claims circulating online that a foreign-linked hacking group accessed FBI unmanned aircraft systems and associated imagery.
The bureau added that it remains fully postured to protect World Cup venues and events alongside federal, state, and local partners. Handala previously claimed it infiltrated water systems serving several California cities including Bakersfield, Visalia, and Chico. The group posted screenshots that appeared to show residents’ water bills from the claimed breach.
U.S. government seized domains allegedly used by Handala and announced a $10 million reward for information leading to the identification of the group’s members. Earlier this year, Handala leaked what it claimed were historical emails belonging to FBI Director Patel.
The FBI encourages the public to rely on official sources and to report suspicious activity to law enforcement.
