On January 7, Beirut’s international airport [1] [2] [3], also known as the Rafic Hariri International Airport, experienced a cyberattack carried out by a group called Jund al-Rab. This attack targeted the departure and arrival screens [3], defacing them with messages directed at Hezbollah and Iran. The cyberattack aimed to disrupt the airport’s operations and create a hostile atmosphere for passengers.
Description
The hackers criticized Hezbollah and claimed that the airport does not belong to them, while also warning against war. In addition to defacing the screens, the attack disrupted the airport’s baggage handling system [2], resulting in increased reliance on police dogs for inspection checks [2]. Despite the disruption [3], airport operations continued [3], with efforts made to address any malfunctions that occurred. It is important to note that the breach only affected the separate network of screens and did not impact the broader information work networks. The Minister of Public Works and Transport reassured the public that authorities are actively working to restore normalcy and investigate the cause of the breach [3].
Conclusion
This cyberattack adds a new dimension to the escalating tensions between Hezbollah and the Israeli military [1], highlighting the intersection of cyber warfare and traditional military actions in modern conflicts [1]. The incident underscores the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures to protect critical infrastructure, such as airports, from similar attacks in the future. It also emphasizes the importance of swift response and mitigation efforts to minimize disruptions and ensure the safety and convenience of passengers. As cyber warfare continues to evolve, it is crucial for authorities to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these threats.
References
[1] https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/anti-hezbollah-hack-beirut-airport/
[2] https://www.darkreading.com/cyberattacks-data-breaches/beirut-airport-cyberattack-targets-hezbollah
[3] https://english.almanar.com.lb/2020053
