Report claims Iranian hackers focused on airlines, energy utilities

Iranian hackers continue to develop their cyberattack capabilities, and have breached some of the leading energy infrastructure and transport companies, potentially leading to physical damage, the Cylance cybersecurity firm warned.

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As part of the widespread campaign, companies in the United States, China, Israel, Germany, France, India and Saudi Arabia have been hit - with industries ranging from aerospace research companies, universities, energy firms, telecommunications operators and hospitals being compromised.

"We believe that if the operation is left to continue unabated, it is only a matter of time before the team impacts the world's physical safety," the Cylance report claimed.

Although China and Russia receive most of the blame for organized cyberattacks against foreign companies, Iran, North Korea, and India have shown increased interest in cyberespionage operations. If the nations do not have the capabilities to launch these types of attacks, they will provide financial banking to a group willing to hack companies on their behalf.