Bank Sepah of Iran Targeted in Alleged Cyberattack, Data Loss Reported

A cyberattack has reportedly disabled Bank Sepah, a state-owned bank in Iran, according to a hacking group believed to have Israeli connections. The group, identifying itself as Gonjeshke Darande (Predatory Sparrow), claimed to have deleted crucial data, preventing customer access. The bank’s website was rendered inaccessible following the group’s announcement. Bank Sepah’s London subsidiary has not commented. The same group previously claimed responsibility for a 2022 attack on an Iranian steel plant and a 2021 cyberattack that affected Iranian gas stations. Experts assess these attacks suggest state-sponsored involvement. The timing of the cyberattack aligns with the ongoing tensions and missile exchanges between Iran and Israel. Rob Joyce, former NSA cyber chief, expressed concerns about the potential economic impact of the attack on the Iranian banking system. Iranian officials have not yet issued a detailed statement on the matter. Israel maintains a policy of silence regarding clandestine cyber operations. The question of whether the bank’s data can be recovered is currently unanswered.