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FBI seizes two websites linked to Handala
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The FBI seized two websites linked to the pro‑Iranian hacktivist group Handala.
Why it matters
The FBI seized two websites tied to the pro‑Iranian hacktivist group Handala. As of Thursday, the sites' contents — one used to publicize claimed hacks and another used to publish doxxed personal data — were replaced by a banner announcing the law enforcement action. The seizure announcement did not state a reason, and its language indicated authorities believed the sites were run by hackers linked to a foreign government. Handala last week claimed responsibility for a destructive cyberattack against a U.S. medical‑technology company and has been active since at least October 7, 2023.
Implications
- · Federal custody blocks public access to the seized domains, removing the groups' hosted hack claims and doxxing lists from those URLs.
- · The domain takedown disrupts Handala's use of those specific sites for publishing and dissemination.
- · Seized site content is preserved under law enforcement control and can be retained for investigative or evidentiary purposes.
Who is affected
- · Hacktivist operators and affiliates tied to Handala
- · Individuals doxxed on the seized sites
- · Incident‑response and cybersecurity teams at targeted organizations
- · Federal investigators and prosecutors
Source
Topics
World & Politics Security & Defense Law & Public Safety Criminal Justice Technology & Innovation Cybersecurity