An Iran-linked hacker group known as Handala has claimed responsibility for breaching FBI drone systems and issued threats related to the FIFA World Cup, according to a statement published by SITE Intelligence Group, which monitors extremist and cyber threat activity.
The group alleged it had accessed data from FBI first-person-view drones for months, including images, suspect information, facial recognition records, and license plate scans used in counterterrorism operations.
Handala also warned that World Cup security should be tightened, suggesting drones could be used against participating teams.
However, the report noted that some of the evidence released by the hackers has been disputed. According to SITE, one video presented as proof of the breach was actually promotional footage created in 2024 for a U.S. police department's technology program.
The article said U.S. authorities have already heightened security around World Cup venues, including drone restrictions near stadiums and fan zones.
The State Department has previously offered up to $10 million for information leading to the identification of Handala members.
Related Tweet:
Iran-linked hackers 'infiltrate FBI drones and threaten to target World Cup'https://t.co/YFWMu79Q6B
— The Sun (@TheSun) June 12, 2026
Also Read:
TIPP Staff
