In a significant escalation of cyber conflict, a hacking group associated with Israel, identified as “Gonjeshke Darande” or “Predatory Sparrow,” has successfully executed a cyberattack, paralyzing approximately 70% of Iran’s gas stations. The attack, reminiscent of the group’s 2022 strike on a major steel company, unfolded with a reported “software problem” causing widespread disruption in the functioning of gas pumps throughout the country.
This cyber assault follows a pattern set by the same group in 2021, where Iran’s fuel distribution system fell victim to a similar attack, leading to extensive queues and frustration among motorists. The hacking collective explicitly claimed responsibility for this recent incident, attributing it to their stance against perceived aggression by the Islamic Republic and its regional proxies.
The hackers conveyed a message, stating, “We, Gonjeshke Darande, carried out another cyberattack today, taking out a majority of the gas pumps throughout Iran. This cyberattack comes in response to the aggression of the Islamic Republic and its proxies in the region.” The message also included a warning to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, stating that “playing with fire has a price.”
The geopolitical context of this attack is notable, given the ongoing conflicts involving Iran-backed groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen, who have intensified attacks against Israel amid the ongoing war with Hamas. Iran itself has been a frequent target of cyberattacks in recent years, affecting various sectors such as filling stations, railway systems, and industries.
The incident underscores the vulnerability of Iran’s cyber infrastructure, partly attributed to challenges in acquiring up-to-date hardware and software due to Western sanctions. The country often relies on Chinese-manufactured electronics and outdated systems, potentially making it an easier target for cyber threats. The hacking group’s actions shed light on the complexities and implications of the evolving cyber landscape in the region.
