Iran threatens U.S: Analysts warn of potential sneak attack by Tehran on America as tensions soar
Tensions between the U.S. and Iran are escalating real quick. Experts say that as the talk of war heats up, Iran could launch a silent but deadly cyberattack on the US. Banks, hospitals, and other important systems may already be infected and waiting to be triggered, as the conflict approaches a crucial tipping point
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of Iran, declared in a statement read by a television host that his nation would not abide by President Donald Trump's demand for an unconditional surrender.
Iran has threatened to go to "all-out war" if the US joins the conflict after rejecting calls to abandon its nuclear program.
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James Knight, an expert on cybersecurity, believes that if tensions rise, Iran could launch a digital attack on US infrastructure. Although a long-term collapse is unlikely, Americans should remain vigilant, keep their devices up to date, and be prepared for potential short-term issues.
What kind of cyberattack could Iran launch?
If the US formally intervenes in the conflict between Israel and Iran, Americans should expect bank disruptions and possible blackouts, stated James Knight, as quoted in a report by the Daily Mail.
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The Iranian government may launch a last-ditch effort to exact revenge by activating malware that hackers have already implanted in US systems.
Knight warned, "We can anticipate some lone wolves who will want to carry out some sort of retaliation, even if the US does not get involved."
Knight disclosed that in the digital sphere, this might entail several groups of Iranian hackers targeting vital US infrastructure, such as hospitals, power grids, banks, and oil pipelines.
Knight clarified that major power plants and energy production facilities are the most likely targets of a cyberattack, which is more likely to cause chaos across the United States than to cause long-term damage.
He remarked, "It would be the retaliation, tit for tat, sort of attacks." "Destroying things, resulting in blackouts."
Knight clarified that each Iranian cyber unit has a distinct area of expertise, with some concentrating on stealing passwords, private data, and breaching large networks, such as hospitals, to target regular Americans.
He said that hackers could access ICU medical devices and compromise a hospital receptionist's computer, causing life-saving equipment to be shut down across the country.
Hackers might target digital currency platforms, payment processors, and American banks in the interim. They won't topple the United States. "They're only trying to cause pain," he said.
How can Americans protect themselves?
Here are some public protection measures against hacking, as per James Knight.
Be cautious of emails and set strong passwords.
Regularly update computers and mobile devices with the latest security updates.
Switch to multi-factor authentication by sending a secret code to a person's phone or email when logging into certain sites.
Passkeys are a passwordless, phishing-resistant technology that uses cryptographic keys stored on a user's devices and authenticated using biometrics.
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Could malware already be inside U.S. systems?
Iran has an advantage because, in anticipation of the impending conflict, their hackers have infected American computer networks with malicious malware. For years, hacker groups can remain in systems, hardening them and integrating themselves covertly. Only when Iran feels it is absolutely necessary or when it has nothing left to lose in a conflict with the US do these malicious programs get activated.
Iran is known to take credit for US defense breaches, often boasting about their plans. The US government's cybersecurity teams are however, ready to combat the possible threat, but at the same time Iranian cyber units are proficient and have been conducting attacks for years, as per a report by the Daily Mail.
However, Americans must exercise caution and be prepared for such term attacks.
FAQs
What would the Iranian cyberattack target?
According to experts, Iran would most likely target US banks, power grids, hospitals, and cryptocurrency platforms to cause chaos and send a message, rather than inflicting permanent damage.
Can average Americans do anything to prepare?
Experts recommend using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, and remaining vigilant online. It's also a good idea to keep extra cash, food, and supplies on hand in case of a blackout.
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