This Isn''t Hypothetical. This Is Happening Right Now.
While missiles fly over Isfahan, a quieter war is happening in your inbox. Since Operation Resolute Shield began on February 28, Iranian state-sponsored hacking groups (APT33, APT34, APT35) have compromised an estimated 2.3 million user credentials across US, UK, and Israeli targets.
Let me say that again: 2.3 million accounts. In 10 days.
What They''re Targeting
- Email accounts: Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo — credential stuffing at massive scale
- Financial services: Online banking, brokerage accounts, payment processors
- Corporate VPNs: Remote access to company networks
- Cloud storage: Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox
- Social media: Account takeovers for disinformation campaigns
How to Protect Yourself Right Now
- Enable 2FA everywhere. Not SMS (SIM swappable). Use an authenticator app (Authy, Google Authenticator) or hardware key (YubiKey).
- Use a VPN. A VPN encrypts your traffic so ISPs and attackers can''t intercept your data. NordVPN is our top pick at $3.09/mo.
- Get a password manager. If you''re reusing passwords in 2026, you''re basically leaving your front door open with a sign that says "come on in." See our top picks.
- Check HaveIBeenPwned.com. Enter your email. See if you''re compromised. Do it now. I''ll wait.
- Freeze your credit. Free at all three bureaus. Takes 5 minutes. Prevents identity theft even if your data is exposed.
The Bigger Picture
Cyberwarfare is now inseparable from physical warfare. Every military conflict will have a cyber component targeting civilians. This is the new normal. Protect yourself accordingly.
