Security concerns for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have risen following a threat from a hacking group linked to Iran, claiming they breached FBI surveillance systems. The group, known as Handala, alleged access to FBI drone footage, hinting at potential threats to participating teams. Handala, identified as a pro-Palestinian hacktivist group, is suspected of having ties to Iranian state interests and has previously targeted Israeli and Western entities since 2023. They claim to have monitored FBI drone footage used for counterterrorism, including facial recognition and license plate tracking. The group issued a warning suggesting potential attacks on World Cup teams, though doubts about the credibility of their claims have surfaced, as one video presented as evidence seemed to be from a software company’s promotional material. Earlier this year, Handala claimed to have accessed the personal email of FBI Director Kash Patel. U.S. authorities are monitoring the group closely, offering a reward for information on its members. As the World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, approaches, security remains a top priority, with extensive measures in place around key locations.
Are World Cup teams under threat from Iran-linked hackers?
