UK, US and Netherlands warn of Iranian spyware targeting dissidents and journalists

Britain, the United States and the Netherlands have issued a warning about a malicious spyware program known as “CHOSEN BRICK,” which they say is being used by Iran-linked operatives to target dissidents, activists and journalists. The campaign could allow attackers to access the contents of victims’ devices and accounts.

According to Reuters on Tuesday, the three countries released a joint advisory about the spyware, which, according to the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, can steal emails and messages, access social media accounts and device microphones, and capture screenshots.

The British center said attackers have impersonated trusted individuals and used fake documents to convince targets to download the malware. Among the fraudulent documents were supposed MRI scan results.

In the United States, the FBI announced that Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence is using this technology to gather information, expose data, and damage the reputations of those targeted.