The General Security Service and the National Cyber Directorate revealed today (Wednesday) that hundreds of cyber attack attempts by Iranian intelligence elements were thwarted in the past year.
The targets were senior government and defense officials, academics, journalists, and defense industry workers.
According to the joint statement, a significant increase in hostile activity was identified starting with Operation 'Am Kalavi'.
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The purpose of the attacks is to collect personal and professional information - for the benefit of promoting terrorist activity, espionage, and influence.
The method of operation is based on 'targeted phishing', which involves personal contact while impersonating familiar figures and inviting them to download files or click on links. In this way, the attackers attempt to obtain login details and verification codes for Google, Telegram, and WhatsApp accounts, in order to gain full access to the victims' correspondence and information.
The Shin Bet and the Cyber Division have worked in recent months to curb the attempts by sending targeted alerts, blocking people, and briefing individuals on tightening the security of their accounts.
At the same time, campaigns were carried out to raise awareness among the public and relevant populations.
The bodies recommend that the public, and in particular individuals who hold sensitive information, activate two-step verification, be alert to inquiries from new parties, and avoid providing personal information or clicking on suspicious links.
It was also noted that it is recommended to use advanced protection programs recently launched by Google and WhatsApp.
