The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has issued a new alert warning that Iranian cyber actors are actively scanning and targeting vulnerable networks across the United States. These actors are known for exploiting common security gaps such as unpatched software, weak credentials, and poorly secured remote services to infiltrate systems and carry out disruptive or destructive cyberattacks.
This isn’t a theoretical risk. It’s a real and persistent threat that impacts public and private sectors alike.
Who Is Being Targeted?
According to CISA, Iranian cyber groups are particularly interested in:
- Critical infrastructure organizations
- Government agencies
- Healthcare, financial, and energy sectors
- Any entity with exposed or misconfigured internet-facing systems
What makes these actors especially dangerous is their ability to move quickly. They don’t need zero-day exploits. They often rely on well-known vulnerabilities that organizations haven’t patched, default credentials, or cloud services with overly permissive access.
How Do They Gain Access?
CISA highlights several common entry points for these threat actors:
- Unpatched firewalls, VPNs, and routers
- Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) left exposed
- Misconfigured cloud storage or identity systems
- Weak or reused passwords
- Lack of multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Once inside, attackers may steal data, disrupt operations, or even deploy ransomware and wipers to cause lasting damage.
What You Can Do Now
To strengthen your defenses against targeted cyber activity from Iranian threat actors, CISA and partner agencies recommend taking the following proactive steps, especially for organizations managing critical infrastructure or operational technology (OT) environments:
1. Disconnect Operational Technology (OT) and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Assets from the Public Internet
Audit your systems for any OT or industrial control system components (like HMIs or PLCs) that are accessible online. Immediately disconnect them, especially if they use remote access technologies such as RDP, SSH, VNC, or web-based management interfaces.
If remote access is necessary, adopt a deny-by-default allow list policy to control who can connect.
2. Strengthen Access Controls
Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts and devices. Replace weak or default credentials without delay. For cloud services and managed providers, implement Role-Based Access Controls (RBAC) and conditional access policies.
3. Implement Phishing-Resistant MFA
Deploy multifactor authentication (MFA) across your environment, with a focus on phishing-resistant options. Strategically require MFA for sensitive actions, such as changes to high-value OT controllers.
4. Patch Internet-Facing Systems
Apply the latest software and firmware updates from manufacturers. Prioritize systems connected to the internet, as these are prime targets for known vulnerabilities.
5. Monitor Access Logs and Configuration Changes
Regularly audit user access logs, especially for remote connections into your OT environment. Watch for unauthorized firmware updates, configuration changes, or new accounts being created.
6. Prevent Unauthorized Changes in Operational Technology
Implement processes that reduce the risk of operational disruption. For example:
- Lock PLCs in run mode (not program mode)
- Use interlocks and safety systems
- Add redundant sensors to validate inputs
These safeguards help maintain control even if part of your system is compromised.
7. Prepare for Incident Recovery
Maintain comprehensive incident response and business continuity plans. Regularly back up your systems and rehearse recovery scenarios to ensure you can act quickly in the event of an attack.
Don’t forget to update your IR plan based on lessons learned from exercises or real incidents.
8. Plan for the Impact of Data Leaks
If your credentials or sensitive data are stolen, they can be used to launch further attacks. Review how your organization would respond if leaked data were to be weaponized, and ensure controls are in place to contain potential fallout.
Don’t Wait for a Breach to Act
Iranian cyber actors are opportunistic. If your network has vulnerabilities, it’s only a matter of time before it’s scanned, probed, and potentially breached.
At Safe Network Solutions, we specialize in helping organizations close the security gaps that attackers rely on. Whether you need a vulnerability assessment, 24/7 monitoring, or a full security overhaul, we’re here to help you build resilience against modern threats.
Contact us today to schedule a cybersecurity consultation.
Safe Network Solutions is a technology consulting firm located in Nashville, TN. We are focused on reducing our Clients’ stress and the time they spend handling IT related issues. As technology has become more integrated with daily business tasks, downtime is not an option. Whether your systems reside on-premise, in the cloud, or in a hybrid setup, you need a partner with expertise in a wide array of technologies, with a security focus.
