Israeli Researchers Claim Iranian Hackers Behind LA Transit Cyberattack

Tel Aviv. Israeli cybersecurity researchers have claimed that Iranian hackers were involved in the cyberattack on the public transportation system of Los Angeles in March. The attack forced the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority to shut down parts of its network. According to Tel Aviv-based cybersecurity company Gambit Security, hackers stole at least 700 gigabytes of emails, backups, and other files in the incident. The company stated that after the data was accidentally made public online, an investigation revealed that the digital evidence of the attack matched a previous hacking campaign linked to Iran. The Iran-backed group 'Ababil of Minab' claimed responsibility for the attack. The group's name is said to be related to a bombing that killed 175 female students at a school in Iran's Minab city. US and Israeli researchers have accused such groups of being 'cut-out' organizations linked to Iranian cyber intelligence. Gambit Director Eyal Sela stated that while the hackers' connection to Iran was suspected, the current investigation provides forensic evidence supporting it. The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority stated that it would not speculate on the source of the attack as the investigation is ongoing. The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) also stated that it is aware of the incident and coordinating with relevant agencies. The cyberattack, discovered around March 16, did not directly disrupt rail or bus services, but passenger information screens were shut down and the system for depositing funds onto transit cards was affected.