An Iran-linked hacking group, Handala, claimed it breached FBI drones and accessed surveillance footage, threatening teams participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Researchers have disputed some of the evidence released by the hackers.
The claims highlight the potential for cyber threats and geopolitical tensions to impact major international events, raising concerns about security for the upcoming FIFA World Cup and the broader implications of state-sponsored hacking activities.
An Iran-linked hacking group known as Handala has claimed to have breached FBI surveillance drones and accessed sensitive footage, issuing threats against participants of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The group, which has been linked to Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security, stated it obtained months of surveillance data, including facial recognition and license plate scanning technology.
Handala also issued a direct threat to teams competing in the World Cup, warning them to "tighten your World Cup security" and suggesting that "first-person view drones are everywhere." This claim comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
However, researchers from the SITE Intelligence Group have disputed some of the evidence presented by Handala. One video released by the group as proof of a breach was identified as a promotional video from December 2024 for technology used by a U.S. police department. Previously, Handala claimed responsibility for hacking FBI Director Kash Patel's email and breaching California Water Service.
The announcement coincides with warnings from law enforcement agencies about scammers targeting World Cup fans.