Iranian Hackers Target WhatsApp Accounts in U.S. Political Interference Effort

An Iranian hacking group targeted WhatsApp accounts of staffers in Biden and Trump administrations, posing as tech support from companies like Microsoft and Google, Meta Platforms revealed. This cyberattack was part of broader Iranian efforts to interfere with U.S. elections, polarize voters, and oppose candidates unfavorable to Iran.

Meta Platforms revealed that an Iranian hacking group, previously linked to targeting both Democratic and Republican campaigns, attempted to breach the WhatsApp accounts of staffers in the Biden and Trump administrations.

The group posed as tech support agents for major companies such as Microsoft and Google. Meta's investigators identified the network after suspicious messages were reported, connecting the activity to previous incidents affecting the Trump campaign.

According to the FBI, this hack is part of Iran's broader strategy to meddle in U.S. elections, aiming to confuse and divide voters, undermine democracy, and oppose candidates who heighten U.S.-Iran tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)