Iranian Bank Sepah Hacked, Data Reportedly Erased by Suspected Israeli Group

Bank Sepah, a state-owned bank in Iran, has been targeted in a suspected cyberattack. The attack was claimed by a hacking organization with alleged ties to Israel. The group, known as Gonjeshke Darande (Predatory Sparrow), announced the attack on social media, asserting that they wiped crucial data, preventing customers from accessing their funds. Following the announcement, Bank Sepah’s official website became inaccessible. The bank’s London subsidiary has not responded to inquiries. The same group previously claimed responsibility for cyberattacks on an Iranian steel plant in 2022 and Iranian gas stations in 2021, attacks thought to be too sophisticated for independent actors. This cyber incident occurs amidst escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, marked by missile exchanges. According to Rob Joyce, former NSA cyber chief, the attack could severely affect the Iranian economy. Iranian authorities have not provided detailed information, while Israel typically avoids commenting on such covert operations. The possibility of recovering the lost bank data remains unclear.