- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:40 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
A hacker group believed to be linked to Iran has claimed responsibility for a large-scale cyberattack targeting a major US medical technology company, highlighting how cyber warfare is increasingly becoming a key element of modern conflicts alongside missiles and drones.
The attack reportedly affected more than 2,00,000 computers, servers and mobile devices. The incident also temporarily halted many of the company's global operations.
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The cyberattack reportedly took place on March 11 and targeted Stryker Corporation, which is headquartered in Michigan in the United States. Reports indicate that the attack affected thousands of the company's computer systems and temporarily halted many of its operations. This attack occurred at a time of heightened military tensions between Iran, the US, and Israel.
Who took responsibility for the attack?
The Iran-linked hacker group Handala Hack has claimed responsibility for the cyberattack. The group said the attack was retaliation for the attack on the Minab school. According to reports, a US Tomahawk missile struck an elementary school in Minab on February 28, killing approximately 180 children.
The hacker group claims to have stolen approximately 51 terabytes of company data and damaged or compromised more than 2,00,000 systems, servers, and mobile devices. The group also said they targeted Verifone, a payments company.
Who is the 'Handala' group?
According to cybersecurity company Check Point, the "Handala Hack" is also tracked under the name "Void Manticore." This group is believed to be linked to Iran's intelligence agency, the Ministry of Intelligence and Security. Other names for the group include Red Sandstorm, Banished Kitten, Karma and Homeland Justice.
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Security experts say the group often uses “wiper attacks,” a cyber technique designed to erase data from targeted computers and servers after stealing sensitive information. In some cases, the attackers also send fraudulent emails or software updates to employees to gain access to internal systems.
The name Handala is derived from the Palestinian cartoon character Handala, considered a symbol of resistance. The group first emerged in late 2023 and was initially believed to be a pro-Palestinian hacktivist group. However, cybersecurity experts say the group has now become a major cyber weapon linked to the Iranian government.