# Handala

**Source:** https://www.startuphub.ai/startups/handala
**Profile type:** Startup

> Pro-Iranian hacktivist group known for cyberattacks, often linked to Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security.

## About

Handala Hack Team is a pro-Iranian hacktivist group that emerged in December 2023, aligning with pro-Palestinian messaging and Iranian strategic interests. While presenting itself as an independent collective, it is widely assessed to be a state-aligned actor supporting Iranian cyber operations, likely operating as a front for Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS). The group conducts disruptive attacks, including data exfiltration, website defacements, destructive wiper malware, and information operations, targeting government entities, critical infrastructure, and private-sector organizations, particularly in Israel and the United States. They have been linked to attacks on high-profile organizations such as Stryker Corporation and have claimed responsibility for hacking the personal email of FBI Director Kash Patel.

## Key facts

- **Slug:** handala
- **Location:** Tehran, Iran
- **Founded:** 2023-12-01
- **Operating status:** Active
- **Sectors / tags:** Cybersecurity, Hacktivism, Threat Intelligence, Information Warfare, Geopolitical Hacking, Information Operations, State-Sponsored Cyber Activity
- **Social:**
  - Twitter: https://x.com/Handala_hack

## Frequently asked

### What does Handala do?

Handala Hack Team is a pro-Iranian hacktivist group that emerged in December 2023, aligning with pro-Palestinian messaging and Iranian strategic interests. While presenting itself as an independent collective, it is widely assessed to be a state-aligned actor supporting Iranian cyber operations, likely operating as a front for Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS). The group conducts disruptive attacks, including data exfiltration, website defacements, destructive wiper malware, an…

### Where is Handala headquartered?

Handala is headquartered in Tehran, Iran.

### When was Handala founded?

Handala was founded in 2023.

### What industry does Handala operate in?

Handala operates in Cybersecurity, Hacktivism, Threat Intelligence, Information Warfare, Geopolitical Hacking, Information Operations.

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