Federal officials say websites were used for hacking claims, threats, and influence campaigns.
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the seizure this month of four internet domains allegedly connected to cyber operations attributed to Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security. Officials said the domains were used to claim responsibility for hacking incidents, publish stolen data, and distribute messages targeting journalists, dissidents, and other individuals. The sites were taken offline following a court-authorized seizure and now display federal notices.
“Terrorist propaganda online can incite real-world violence — thanks to our National Security Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, this network of Iranian-backed sites will no longer broadcast anti-American hate,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Our cyber assets will remain ever-vigilant to root out and deactivate networks that pose a threat to American citizens.”
The investigation involved the Federal Bureau of Investigation, including its Baltimore field office and cyber division, along with prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland and the Justice Department’s National Security Division. Federal officials, including AG Bondi, Director Kash Patel, Assistant Attorney General for National Security John Eisenberg, and U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland Kelly Hayes, said the action was part of broader efforts to disrupt cyber-enabled threats and foreign influence activity targeting individuals and institutions.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Attorney General Bondi, Director Patel, and Attorney Hayes as they address cyber threats.
- For federal officials as they seek to protect Americans from online harassment, threats, or data exposure.
- For cybersecurity professionals and investigators working to protect communications infrastructure and public safety.
Sources: Department of Justice, Washington Examiner
