In Tel Aviv, Israeli law enforcement has arrested a local resident suspected of collaborating with Iranian intelligence services in exchange for cryptocurrency. According to the investigation, the man was carrying out tasks related to gathering intelligence, acting under the instructions of an Iranian agent.
This is reported by Business • Media
Suspicions of Espionage and the Role of Cryptocurrency
According to information from the police and the Israeli Security Agency, the suspect had been in contact with an Iranian handler for several months. His tasks included photographing the homes of Israeli officials, military sites, and also painting political graffiti on walls. For these actions, he received thousands of dollars in cryptocurrencies.
During a search of the suspect’s home, police seized computers and other digital devices that were likely used for communication with the Iranian side.
“Individuals engaged in espionage against the State of Israel will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” stated the Security Agency and police.
Security Measures and Escalation of Cyber Tension
A court in Tel Aviv has ordered the suspect to remain in custody until at least June 26, 2025, while the investigation continues. In a joint statement, the police and Shabak urged citizens to exercise caution, emphasizing that Iranian intelligence services and affiliated terrorist groups are actively attempting to recruit Israelis through social media.
As noted in the announcement, citizens are advised to ignore suspicious communications from foreigners and to immediately report any suspicious activities to law enforcement.
It is worth mentioning that recently, cyber tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated: a pro-Israel hacker group announced the hacking of the Iranian cryptocurrency exchange Nobitex and the withdrawal of approximately $90 million in cryptocurrencies, accusing the platform of ties to Iranian intelligence. In response, Iran’s central bank imposed restrictions on the operating hours of cryptocurrency exchanges following this cyber attack.