The „CHOSEN BRICK” Weapon: How It Operates
On Tuesday, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the Netherlands issued a joint cybersecurity advisory. They warned that Iranian state‑linked actors use a spyware family called „CHOSEN BRICK” to target dissidents, activists, and journalists.
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What Can Victims Do? Protective Measures and International Response
The spyware family is delivered through malicious links or compromised apps. Once installed, it creates a backdoor that gives attackers full control over the device. It can record audio, capture screenshots, and read messages. The software also exfiltrates data to servers in Iran. The advisory cites several incidents in which journalists and activists were targeted while traveling abroad. The attackers exploit known vulnerabilities in popular operating systems. The software can bypass common security tools, making it difficult to detect. The advisory stresses that the threat is not limited to a single country; it is a global concern for anyone who shares sensitive information.
Frequently Asked Questions
The advisory recommends regular software updates and the use of reputable security solutions. Users should avoid clicking on unknown links and should verify the authenticity of apps before installation. The United Kingdom’s National Cyber Security Centre, the U. S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and the Dutch Cybersecurity Center are coordinating to share threat intelligence. They are also working with international partners to track the source of the attacks. Victims can report incidents to local law enforcement and to the advisory’s helpdesk. The governments also call for stronger cyber‑law enforcement and for the protection of journalists and activists under international law.
The joint warning signals a shift in cyber diplomacy. It underscores the importance of cross‑border cooperation to counter state‑backed cyber‑espionage. The advisory may prompt new regulations, increased funding for security tools, and a greater focus on protecting human rights defenders. The governments also encourage private sector partners to improve their defenses. The threat remains real, but coordinated action can reduce the risk to those who speak out.
