### Rising Tensions: U.S. Prepares for Iranian Cyberattacks Amid Military Conflict In light of escalating military tensions between the U.S. and Iran, particularly following recent airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued warnings regarding potential Iranian cyberattacks targeting U.S. networks. The DHS has indicated that low-level cyberattacks are "likely" as Iranian hackers are reportedly scanning for vulnerabilities in U.S. infrastructure, including critical sectors such as healthcare, water supply, and energy [https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/26/homeland-security-warns-of-iran-backed-cyberattacks-targeting-us-networks][https://www.tahawultech.com/home-slide/u-s-on-alert-for-iranian-cyberattacks]. ### Structure of the Response: Key Segments 1. **Background of the Conflict**: Overview of the military actions taken by the U.S. against Iran and the subsequent warnings from DHS. 2. **Nature of the Cyber Threat**: Description of the types of cyberattacks expected and the sectors that may be targeted. 3. **Government and Expert Responses**: Insights from cybersecurity experts and government officials regarding the potential impact and preparedness measures. 4. **Historical Context**: Examination of previous Iranian cyber activities against U.S. interests to provide context for current threats. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Recent Military Actions**: The U.S. conducted airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, prompting fears of retaliation through cyber means [https://www.scworld.com/brief/dhs-retaliatory-iranian-cyberattacks-against-us-likely-after-nuclear-site-strikes]. - **Targeted Sectors**: Critical infrastructure such as hospitals, water dams, and power plants are on high alert for potential attacks [https://edition.cnn.com/2025/06/24/tech/iran-cyberattack-fears-us]. - **Cybersecurity Expert Opinions**: Experts warn that Iranian hackers are actively scanning for vulnerabilities, indicating a proactive approach to potential cyber warfare [https://www.kmvt.com/2025/06/24/concerns-remain-about-possible-iranian-cyber-attacks]. - **Historical Precedents**: Previous Iranian cyberattacks, including the theft of sensitive documents from U.S. political campaigns, highlight the ongoing threat posed by Iranian cyber capabilities [https://www.defenseone.com/threats/2025/06/dhs-expects-irans-cyber-forces-will-target-us-networks-after-strikes-nuclear-sites/406215]. ### Summary of Findings 1. **Increased Cyber Threats**: The U.S. is facing heightened risks of cyberattacks from Iranian state-sponsored groups and hacktivists following military actions against Iran. 2. **Critical Infrastructure at Risk**: Key sectors such as healthcare and utilities are particularly vulnerable and are being monitored closely for potential attacks. 3. **Proactive Measures Required**: Government agencies and cybersecurity experts emphasize the need for heightened vigilance and preparedness to mitigate the risks associated with these cyber threats. 4. **Historical Context Reinforces Current Warnings**: Past incidents of Iranian cyberattacks underscore the seriousness of the current situation and the likelihood of retaliatory actions. In conclusion, the U.S. must remain vigilant and proactive in its cybersecurity measures as tensions with Iran escalate, particularly in light of the recent military actions that have prompted warnings of potential cyber retaliation [https://www.theregister.com/2025/06/23/iran_cyberattacks_against_us].