Iran-linked hackers from the “Handala Hack” group claim they breached the personal email account of FBI Director Kash Patel.
The group has posted what it says are private photos of Patel, his resume and a larger .zip file that purportedly contains additional hacked materials.
In a statement to Scripps news, the FBI said the information is “historical in nature and involves no government information,” adding that steps have been taken to mitigate potential risks associated with the hack.
RELATED STORY | Trump reveals ‘present’ from Iran as ceasefire talks face uncertainty
Earlier this month, the DOJ seized and took down four websites linked to the group. Authorities said the sites targeted adversaries of the Iranian regime by claiming credit for hacking activity, posting sensitive data stolen in those breaches and calling for the killing of journalists, dissidents and Israeli nationals.
RELATED STORIES | Trump says US will extend ‘pause’ on targeting Iranian energy plants through April 6
In its statement, the FBI said it’s offering a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the identification of the Handala Hack Team.
The hack comes at a critical time in the U.S. war with Iran. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that “very good and productive conversations” were held about a potential ceasefire. He also extended a pause on airstrikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure while those negotiations are ongoing.
Iran has previously said it is not directly communicating with the U.S. However, experts say messages are likely being passed through intermediaries.
