Ministry of Intelligence and Security

The Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) is Iran's primary intelligence agency, responsible for internal and external security operations. Recent reports from Western intelligence agencies, including the US, UK, and Netherlands, highlight the MOIS's alleged use of sophisticated cyber capabilities, such as the 'CHOSEN BRICK' spyware, to target Iranian dissidents living abroad. These operations aim to monitor and suppress criticism of the Iranian government. Furthermore, an Iran-linked hacking group, the Handala Hack Team, has claimed responsibility for breaching the personal emails of FBI Director Kash Patel, demonstrating a capacity to target high-profile individuals. These developments underscore the MOIS's active role in conducting cyber espionage and offensive cyber operations, posing a significant threat to individuals and entities critical of the Iranian regime, as well as potentially impacting international security.