Iran Still Holds Potent Weapon to Disable America

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Iran is reportedly preparing a cyberattack as a retaliatory instrument against Israel after its military capacity was crippled in the latest operation. US cybersecurity firm Anomali says Tehran is likely to deploy wiper malware to cripple its adversaries’ digital systems. In its analysis, Anomali notes that Iran has mobilised the APT42 and APT33 hacker groups, linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence (MOIS), also known as MuddyWater. Another security firm, SentinelOne, estimates that the attack targets could include defence networks, government, and intelligence in Israel and the United States in the coming days. Citing EuroNews, the tactic deemed most risky is the use of wiper malware, malicious software designed to permanently erase data and damage computer systems. If deployed on a large scale, such an attack could paralyse vital services and critical infrastructure. Additionally, Iran may launch DDoS attacks to disrupt online services and bolster disinformation campaigns to shape global public opinion. The narratives could range from accusations of war crimes by Israel to exaggerated claims of military losses. While some analysts, including Sophos, say Iranian groups often exaggerate their capabilities, they remain considered capable cyber actors. Their past track record shows attack targets include critical infrastructure and the financial sector. On the other hand, Israel is not without defence. the IDF has Unit 8200, an elite cyber unit reputed to have been involved in the Stuxnet operation, the virus that damaged Iran’s uranium enrichment facilities at Natanz a decade ago. Last year, Israeli authorities accused pro-Iran groups of sending fake SMS messages posing as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to warn of an attack on bomb shelters. Iran has also accused Israel of using the popular messaging app WhatsApp to spy on its citizens during the 12-day war last year. Iranian authorities even urged the public to delete the app from their phones, though this was denied by its parent company, Meta.