Iran-Linked Group That Hacked Kash Patel's Email Threatens World Cup With Hijacked FBI Drones
An Iran-linked hacking group, Handala, threatened security around the 2026 FIFA World Cup and claimed it hacked FBI-operated surveillance drones near tournament venues. It said it accessed months of drone footage, including facial recognition and license plate data, and warned teams to “tighten” security because drones could reach team buses. The claims were reported by SITE Intelligence Group but have not been independently verified. SITE also disputed one video Handala used as evidence, saying it was actually a December 2024 promotional video. U.S. officials link Handala to Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security and say it has used data theft, wiper malware, and influence operations. The threat follows earlier claims by the group, including an alleged hack of FBI Director Kash Patel’s email and a breach of California Water Service.
