Handala, a hacking collective linked to Iran, issued an explicit threat to World Cup 2026 operations on Saturday, claiming months-long access to FBI unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) deployed for surveillance near stadiums and fan zones. The group stated: "Better strengthen security at the World Cup—we really do not like some of these teams. Do not forget: FPV drones are everywhere. You never know when one might be right by your team bus."
The hackers alleged they possess all imagery and suspect data captured by FBI facial recognition and vehicle identification systems deployed for counter-terrorism purposes. However, CBS News investigation found the photographic and video evidence posted by Handala is fabricated or misdated—one promotional video allegedly demonstrating drone capability was created in 2024 for a U.S. police department's disaster assessment project, not FBI surveillance operations.
The FBI operates drones near World Cup venues to detect unauthorized unmanned aircraft, though federal law prohibits civilian drone operation over stadiums, fan zones, and official fan gatherings during the tournament. The SITE Intelligence Group confirmed the claim by Handala remains unconfirmed, noting that the submitted evidence does not credibly support the group's stated access to FBI systems.