In a significant breach highlighting ongoing tensions between Israel and pro-Palestinian groups, a hacking collective known as the “Handala Hacking Team” has reportedly infiltrated the Israel Police’s data bank. This infiltration comes as a direct response to Israel’s recent military actions in the Gaza Strip.
According to a statement released by the Iranian group via Telegram, they have managed to extract approximately 2.1 terabytes of sensitive data. This includes around 350,000 documents that are said to contain personal files and psychological profiles of Israeli police personnel. Additional sensitive materials reportedly taken include gun licenses, email addresses, and photographs of law enforcement officers. The group also claimed to have secured classified documents detailing crime suspects, convicted individuals, and permits related to the employment of sex offenders.
In response to the allegations, the Israeli police have firmly denied any breach of their information systems. They asserted that no external party has gained access to their infrastructure and emphasized that there is no evidence suggesting a hacking incident occurred. In a statement posted on X, the police outlined their commitment to cybersecurity and stated, “The Israel Police operates advanced security measures and is constantly working to strengthen its defense systems, using the world’s leading technologies in the field of cyber.” They also reiterated that the use and dissemination of illegally obtained personal information is a violation of the law.
The Handala Hacking Team has gained notoriety in the past for its “hacktivism” activities, launching a series of cyberattacks against Israeli federal agencies as retaliation for events related to the Gaza conflict. Among its notable prior operations was an attack in November 2024 targeting the Israeli publicly traded communication company Silicom, which they described as a retributive act following the assassination of Hamas Political Bureau Chairman Yahya Sinwar in October 2023.
The group has diversified its targets beyond government agencies, extending their cyber operations to individuals in prominent positions, including the Israeli prime minister, members of the war cabinet, military chiefs, and diplomatic offices. Their previous attacks have not only focused on data breaches but also included publicizing photographic evidence of their operations, along with sending chain messages to Israeli citizens.
This latest incident showcases the escalating cyber warfare dimension accompanying the ongoing conflict, marking a significant development in how groups leverage digital strategies amid geopolitical strife.
