‘Malicious actors’: Iran-linked group claims responsibility for Kash Patel email hack

A group of hackers linked to Iran claims it hacked FBI Director Kash Patel’s email, multiple outlets reported Friday.

The Handala Hack Team, which is a hacktivist group U.S. officials believe to be tied to Iranian intelligence, postedphotos of Patel next to cars and smoking cigars in Cuba as well as a screenshot of an old resume on its website Friday. The group claimed on its website that the cyberattack was in retaliation for the FBI’s seizure of several domains.

“While the FBI proudly seized our domains and immediately announced a $10 million reward for the heads of Handala Hack members, we decided to respond to this ridiculous show in a way that will be remembered forever,” the group claimed on its website. “Kash Patel, the current head of the FBI, who once saw his name displayed with pride on the agency’s headquarters, will now find his name among the list of successfully hacked victims.”

“The so-called ‘impenetrable’ systems of the FBI were brought to their knees within hours by our team,” the group continued. “All personal and confidential information of Kash Patel, including emails, conversations, documents, and even classified files, is now available for public download.”

The group also dedicated the cyber attack to the crew of the Iranian frigate Dena, which was sunk by a Mk48 torpedo fired by a United States Navy nuclear-powered attack submarine.

“The FBI is aware of malicious actors targeting Director Patel’s personal email information, and we have taken all necessary steps to mitigate potential risks associated with this activity. The information in question is historical in nature and involves no government information,” the FBI said when reached for comment by the Daily Caller News Foundation. “The Department of State’s Rewards for Justice program offers up to a $10 million reward for information leading to the identification of the Handala Hack Team out of Iran – a group that has frequently targeted U.S. government officials.”

“Consistent with President Trump’s Cyber Strategy for America, the FBI will continue to pursue the actors responsible, support victims, and share actionable intelligence in defense of networks,” the FBI continued. “We encourage anyone who experiences a cyber breach, or has information related to malicious cyber activity, to contact their local FBI field office.”

Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience. For licensing opportunities of our original content, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.