A group of Iranian-linked hackers has threatened to release sensitive emails they claim were stolen from top White House figures.
The hackers, calling themselves “Robert,” told Reuters they had accessed around 100 gigabytes of emails from several high-profile individuals. These include White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Trump lawyer Lindsey Halligan, adviser Roger Stone and adult film actress Stormy Daniels.
Though no emails have been released yet, the group said they may consider selling the stolen material. This threat comes just months after the same group reportedly leaked messages from former President Donald Trump’s 2020 campaign.
The White House responded firmly, with FBI Director Kash Patel stating all threats against the president and staff are taken very seriously. “Safeguarding national security and protecting against cyber threats is a top priority,” Patel said.
The incident follows a U.S. warning about possible cyberattacks by groups linked to Iran, especially after missile strikes ordered by Trump on Iranian nuclear facilities.
Cybersecurity officials, including Marci McCarthy from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, described the attack as a smear campaign. She said it aims to discredit public servants and warned there would be no tolerance for such actions.
“This is digital propaganda,” McCarthy stated, urging swift justice for those responsible.
Cyberattacks by foreign-linked groups have been rising, with Chinese hackers previously targeting Trump and Vice President JD Vance. Authorities fear future attacks may target critical infrastructure or defence-related companies with Israeli ties.
