In the midst of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, U.S. officials are bracing themselves for possible cyberattacks from the Iranian regime. Politico reports that the U.S. government is taking precautionary measures, anticipating retaliatory actions due to their support for Israel.

The risk of cyberattacks extends beyond Israel, as U.S. officials believe that nations supporting the Israeli government may also be targeted. These attacks could involve attempts to disrupt critical infrastructure such as water or electricity systems, as well as the spread of disinformation. To avoid detection, Iranian cyber operatives might employ proxies to mask their involvement.

FBI Director Christopher Wray testified before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, warning that cyber targeting of American interests and critical infrastructure could escalate if the conflict expands. Wray also expressed concerns about the potential for kinetic attacks.

Though there is currently no intelligence indicating an imminent attack on U.S. critical infrastructure, multiple federal agencies remain vigilant and hopeful that the defenses established after Russia's invasion of Ukraine can adapt to new threats.

Iran, similar to Russia and China, has a network of sophisticated cyber operators capable of infiltrating government systems and disabling entire computer networks. In the past, Iran has launched attacks within the U.S., but the risk has intensified with the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The Iranian regime has long supported Hamas and other pro-Palestinian groups. Recent drone attacks by Iran-backed armed groups on U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria following Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel have raised concerns about potential retaliation in cyberspace.

Former Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff warned of possible attacks on critical infrastructure such as the electric grid, air traffic system, and water facilities. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been actively monitoring the situation to identify any threats to the U.S. homeland.

To strengthen defenses against Iranian cyberattacks, DHS's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has bolstered its monitoring efforts and is updating its warning system, Shields Up. Critical infrastructure operators receive guidance and cybersecurity recommendations through this program to protect their networks from destructive cyberattacks.

Senate Intelligence Chair Mark Warner has called for increased efforts from CISA, emphasizing the need for a 24/7 national cyber alert system. CISA is working closely with Israeli partners and will share relevant information through the Shields Up campaign.

The Office of the National Cyber Director and the White House National Security Council did not provide comments regarding the specific steps being taken to defend against Iranian attacks.

In addition to sharing threat information with various entities, including religious organizations, DHS is actively engaged with the Faith-Based Information Sharing and Analysis Organization. This organization has raised its cyber threat level due to reports of defaced websites and potential hijacking of online meetings or social media accounts belonging to U.S. religious organizations.

Iran has previously demonstrated its hacking capabilities by targeting U.S. organizations. Last year, Iranian nationals were indicted for attempted cyberattacks on Boston Children's Hospital, and Iran was implicated in efforts to interfere in the 2020 U.S. presidential election through the theft of sensitive voting data and the spread of disinformation.

The concern now is that Iran, known for its retaliatory cyber responses, could quickly counterstrike if its networks are targeted by Israel or its allies in their offensive against Hamas.

Experts and lawmakers have underscored the significant threat posed by Iranian cyberattacks, particularly amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. Committee Chair Mark Green emphasized the Iranian regime's increasing determination and expertise in carrying out malicious activities.

While specific information or intelligence about an imminent attack may not currently be available, officials stress the importance of proactively mitigating potential cyber threats.