Montenegro Arrests Iranian Hacker Linked to $3.4 Billion Cyberattacks

Montenegrin authorities, in collaboration with the FBI, arrested a 39-year-old Iranian national with dual Iranian and Turkish citizenship in Kotor. He is accused of orchestrating cyberattacks from 2013 that targeted over 150 U.S. universities, causing damages estimated at $3.4 billion. The suspect is linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and is charged with conspiracy to commit computer fraud, hacking, and identity theft. The stolen data, including access to compromised university accounts, was allegedly used to benefit Iranian state interests. Extradition proceedings to the U.S. are set to begin in Montenegro's High Court. This arrest highlights ongoing concerns regarding state-sponsored cyber operations from Iran.

Key Points: • An Iranian hacker was arrested in Montenegro for cyberattacks causing $3.4 billion in damages. • The suspect targeted over 150 U.S. universities, allegedly benefiting the IRGC and Iranian institutions. • Extradition proceedings to the U.S. are underway following the arrest.