Iran-affiliated hackers, operating under the alias “Robert,” have threatened to release more stolen emails tied to U.S. President Donald Trump and his inner circle. This follows a previous leak during the 2024 U.S. election, which targeted top Trump allies such as White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, attorney Lindsey Halligan, adviser Roger Stone, and adult film star Stormy Daniels. The group claims to possess 100GB of sensitive material, including internal campaign discussions and legal arrangements involving Trump and now-Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
In recent chats with Reuters, the hackers suggested the emails could be sold but revealed no specifics. The U.S. Justice Department previously attributed the cyberattack to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard in a 2024 indictment, although the hackers have neither confirmed nor denied the link.
The White House and FBI condemned the breach, with FBI Director Kash Patel vowing legal consequences. CISA called it a calculated smear campaign, labeling it “digital propaganda” aimed at discrediting Trump and U.S. officials.
While the earlier leaks briefly captured media attention, they did not significantly influence the 2024 election outcome, which Trump won. The hacking group had claimed to have retired but resurfaced after a brief conflict between Israel and Iran, reigniting fears of retaliatory cyber operations.
Experts like Frederick Kagan of the American Enterprise Institute view the renewed leaks as part of Iran’s asymmetric response strategy, designed to avoid further U.S. or Israeli military escalation. U.S. cyber officials warned that critical infrastructure remains a potential target for future Iranian attacks.
As tensions rise in cyberspace, the U.S. continues to assess risks of foreign interference and digital threats to national security amid ongoing geopolitical volatility.