Pro-Palestinian Hacking Group Targets Israel Police Data
A pro-Palestinian hacking group has successfully breached the Israel Police’s data bank, a move linked to the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. The Iranian cybercriminal collective, known as the ‘Handala Hacking Team’, announced via Telegram that it had exfiltrated around 2.1 terabytes of sensitive data. This cache includes approximately 350,000 documents that reveal personal files and psychological profiles of Israeli police personnel.
Among the stolen information are critical documents that encompass gun licenses, email addresses, and personnel photographs of law enforcement officers. This disclosure was reported by PressTV, the state-run news agency of Iran, further emphasizing the seriousness of the breach.
Details of the Breach
In addition to personal data, Handala also acquired classified information regarding crime suspects, individuals with convictions, and employment permits for sex offenders. The hacking group’s announcement has raised significant concerns regarding the security of police data and the implications for law enforcement operations in Israel.
In response to the breach, Israeli police officials denied any disruption to their systems, asserting that no unauthorized access had occurred. They emphasized that their information systems remain secure, stating, “There is no indication that a hack occurred or that information leaked from police systems.”
Israeli Police’s Response
The Israel Police underscored its commitment to cybersecurity, claiming to employ advanced security measures and continuously upgrading its defenses with cutting-edge technology. In a statement posted on X, they reiterated, “The Israel Police operates advanced security measures and is constantly working to enhance its defenses.”
Moreover, police officials stressed that the unauthorized use and dissemination of personal information is a legal violation, reinforcing their stance on protecting sensitive data against cyber threats.
Previous Attacks by Handala
This incident is not the first for the Handala group, which has a history of executing cyberattacks against Israeli governmental bodies as acts of ‘hacktivism’. Previous operations include a significant attack in November 2024 on Silicom, a publicly traded communication device company in Israel. This attack was framed as retaliation for the killing of Hamas Political Bureau Chairman Yahya Sinwar in October 2023.
Handala’s aggressive approach has also targeted various high-profile officials, including the Prime Minister of Tel Aviv and members of the war cabinet. The group is known for publicizing evidence of its cyber operations, often sharing photographic proof alongside messages directed at Israeli civilians.
The Ongoing Cyber Conflict
The escalation of cyber warfare reflects the broader conflict between Israel and Palestinian groups, particularly as tensions rise in regions like Gaza. As digital attacks become a prevalent form of retaliation, both sides are increasingly investing in cybersecurity and offensive cyber capabilities.
The targeting of sensitive data not only highlights the vulnerabilities within governmental and law enforcement systems but also raises questions about the ethical implications of such hacktivism. As the situation evolves, the potential for further cyber clashes remains high, with both groups likely to continue their digital confrontations.
