Pierluigi Paganini August 15, 2024

Iranian news outlet reported that a major cyber attack targeted the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) and several other banks causing disruptions.

Iran International reported that a massive cyber attack disrupted operations of the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) and several other banks in the country. The attack crippled the computer systems of the banks in the country.

This incident coincides with intensified international scrutiny of Iran’s operations in Middle East, as Teheran announced attacks on Israel unless a ceasefire is achieved in the Gaza conflict. Intelligence experts also blame Iran of attempting to influence the upcoming US Presidential election.

According to Iran International, this is one of the largest cyberattacks on Iran’s state infrastructure to date.

Earlier Wednesday, Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said that “The exaggeration of our enemies’ capabilities is intended to spread fear among our people by the US, Britain, and the Zionists. The enemies’ hand is not as strong as it is publicized. We must rely on ourselves. The enemy’s goal is to spread psychological warfare to push us into political and economic retreat and achieve its objectives.”

“This cyberattack comes at a time of heightened international scrutiny of Iran’s actions in the region as Iran vows to retaliate for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh earlier this month. The leaders of the UK, France, and Germany issued a joint statement warning Iran that it “will bear responsibility” for any attacks against Israel, which could further escalate regional tensions and jeopardize efforts towards a cease-fire and hostage-release deal.” reported the Israeli website Israel Hayom.

EU leaders urged Iran and its allies to avoid further attacks to avoid a new escalation between Israel and Hamas.

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Pierluigi Paganini

(SecurityAffairs – hacking, Central Bank of Iran)