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U.S. Points Finger at Iran for Gas Company Cyberattacks, Defense Secretary Issues Warning

Oct. 12, 2012 2:00pm
Defense Secretary Leon Panetta Speaks of Growing Cyberthreat From Iran

Defense Secretary Leon Panetta was at a meeting of NATO Defense Ministers recently. (Photo: AP/Virginia Mayo)

WASHINGTON (TheBlaze/AP) — U.S. authorities believe that Iranian-based hackers were responsible for cyberattacks that devastated Persian Gulf oil and gas companies, a former U.S. government official said. Just hours later, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said the cyberthreat from Iran has grown, and he declared that the Pentagon is prepared to take action if American is threatened by a computer-based assault.

The former official, who is familiar with the investigation, said U.S. authorities believe the cyberattacks were likely supported by the Tehran government and came in retaliation for the latest round of American sanctions against Iran.

Before Panetta’s remarks on Thursday, U.S. officials had said nothing publicly about the Gulf attacks or the investigation. But Panetta described them in a speech to business leaders in New York City, saying they were probably the most destructive cyber assault the private sector has seen to date.

Panetta did not directly link Iran to the Gulf attacks, but he said Tehran has “undertaken a concerted effort to use cyberspace to its advantage.” And, he said the Pentagon has poured billions into beefing up its ability to identify the origin of a cyberattacks, block them and respond when needed.

“Potential aggressors should be aware that the United States has the capacity to locate them and hold them accountable for actions that harm America or its interests,” said Panetta in a speech to the Business Executives for National Security.

Here’s a part of his speech from the event in New York Thursday:

A current U.S. official acknowledged Thursday that the Obama administration knows who launched the cyberattacks against the Gulf companies and that it was a state actor.

U.S. agencies have been assisting in the Gulf investigation and concluded that the level of resources needed to conduct the attack showed there was some degree of involvement by a nation state, said the former official. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because the investigation is classified as secret.

While Panetta chose his words carefully, one cybersecurity expert said the Pentagon chief’s message to Iran in the speech was evident.

“It’s not something where people are throwing down the gauntlet, but I think Panetta comes pretty close to sending a clear warning (to Iran): We know who it was, maybe you want to think twice before you do it again,” said cybersecurity expert James Lewis, who is with the Center for Strategic and International Studies. “I think the Iranians will put two and two together and realize he’s sending them a message.”

He said Panetta’s remarks were an important step by the U.S. because the Iranian cyberthreat “is a new dimension in 30 years of intermittent conflict with Iran for which we are ill-prepared. It’s really important to put them on notice.”

The cyberattacks hit the Saudi Arabian state oil company Aramco and Qatari natural gas producer RasGas using a virus, known as Shamoon, which can spread through networked computers and ultimately wipes out files by overwriting them.

Senior defense officials said the information was declassified so that Panetta could make the public remarks. The officials added that the Pentagon is particularly concerned about the growing Iranian cyber capabilities, as well as the often discussed threats from China and Russia. The two officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the cyberthreats publicly.

In his speech, Panetta said the Shamoon virus replaced crucial system files at Aramco with the image of a burning U.S. flag, and also overwrote all data on the machine, rendering more than 30,000 computers useless and forcing them to be replaced. He said the Qatar attack was similar.

Panetta offered no new details on the Pentagon’s growing cyber capabilities or the military rules of engagement the department is developing to guide its use of computer-based attacks when the U.S. is threatened.

He said the department is investing more than $3 billion a year in cybersecurity to beef up its ability to defend against and counter cyberthreats, including investment in U.S. Cyber Command. And the Pentagon is honing its policies so that any actions comply with the law of armed conflict.

“Our mission is to defend the nation. We defend. We deter. And if called upon, we take decisive action to protect our citizens,” he said.

He added, however, that the Defense Department will not monitor American citizen’s personal computers, or provide for the day-to-day security of private or commercial networks.

Panetta used the Persian Gulf attacks in his remarks as a warning to business community that it must embrace stalled legislation that would encourage companies to meet certain cybersecurity standards. And he is endorsing a planned move by President Barack Obama to use his executive powers to put some of those programs, including voluntary standards, in place until Congress acts. TheBlaze has reported in the past about concerns over anti-trust law violations and this legislation, the Cyber-Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act.

“These attacks mark a significant escalation of the cyber threat,” Panetta said. “And they have renewed concerns about still more destructive scenarios that could unfold.”

U.S. authorities have repeatedly warned that foreign Internet hackers are probing U.S. critical infrastructure networks, including those that control utility plants, transportation systems and financial networks.

“We know of specific instances where intruders have successfully gained access to these control systems,” Panetta told the business group. “We also know that they are seeking to create advanced tools to attack these systems and cause panic and destruction, and even the loss of life.”

Business leaders, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, opposed the legislations, arguing it would expand the federal government’s regulatory authority over companies already struggling in the tough economy. The bill also encourages more information sharing between the government and private companies.

Panetta pressed the group to support the stronger cybersecurity measures, warning that failure to do so could have catastrophic consequences.

“Before September 11, 2001 the warning signs were there. We weren’t organized. We weren’t ready. And we suffered terribly for that lack of attention,” said Panetta. “We cannot let that happen again. This is a pre-9/11 moment.”

Related:

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Comments (39)

  • universalphilos
    Posted on October 13, 2012 at 11:23pm

    January 9, 1981, this prophecy was given: “Take stock into these things that are happening now around you. Violence begets violence. You wish to know the greatest danger, [it] comes from the Mid-East. Lybia, Pakistan, Palestine, the Palestinian movements, Iran, Iraq — all of these countries soon will be capable of delivering atomic weaponry. And their methods, as you have known before, have no — sacred for human life or other life. We say unto you, beware.”

    Report this comment

    universalphilos  
  • Jenasus
    Posted on October 13, 2012 at 9:11am

    9/11/2001 was a conspiracy to take away our rights of privacy and was sponsored by the Nazi George Bush.

    Report this comment

    Jenasus  
  • Jenasus
    Posted on October 13, 2012 at 9:07am

    They will use this to shut down who ever they feel is a threat to the government on the internet.
    The Gestapo s going to take over the internet and free speech will no longer be allowed on the internet.
    Heil Hitler. The Nazi’s are here.

    Report this comment

    Jenasus  
  • devildogger
    Posted on October 13, 2012 at 4:08am

    Simple fix to this problem, 10-20 megaton bunker buster in the mullah’s palace, right down the chimney. Problem solved.

    I know ragheads don’t have chimneys. They haven’t figured them out yet.

    Report this comment

    devildogger  
  • Individualism
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 5:49pm

    Iran didn’t do and hasn’t done anything. USA leave Iran alone.

    Report this comment

    Individualism  
    • anothercomment
      Posted on October 12, 2012 at 11:00pm

      So you’ve decided to play Switzerland in this scenario? Have fun riding that fence, watch out for splinters….

      Report this comment

      anothercomment  
    • SocialistSlayer
      Posted on October 13, 2012 at 10:19am

      I think your thought process is a little skewed ! Iran is the obvious aggressor here. But don’t worry, your Radical Muslim friend obama will let Iran do as it pleases without any consequences for his Muslim brothers!

      Report this comment

      SocialistSlayer  
  • voting-for-romney
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 3:46pm

    So the Secretary of Defense is telling the American People that Iran is a threat, it is up to the President of the United States to defend the nation, we do not have to wonder about finding evidence, we have that evidence, thanks in part to the Russian government?

    The leader of Israel, told the President of the United States, Iran is a threat, it is up to him to defend the United States? Iran will use all means at its disposal to what? Burn the American flag, or attempt to burn America?

    Meanwhile, all Europe can think about, is it own selfish interests? Iraq has no sense of obligation in ensuring Iran stops reaching beyond its borders? How many of you will think life is wonderful if we keep ignoring Iran, and everyone’s computer turns into a brick?

    Report this comment

    voting-for-romney  
  • progressiveslayer
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 3:08pm

    We have 1.5 trillion barrels of shale oil in the U.S that won’t be exploited as long as Barrys in office.
    We have enough coal to last over 200 years and more NG than any other country.

    http://www.geocraft.com/WVFossils/Energy.html

    http://altenergysources.webs.com/oilshaletarsands.htm

    Report this comment

    progressiveslayer  
    • The-Monk
      Posted on October 12, 2012 at 3:48pm

      Hi Progressiveslayer,

      Have you read any of the science that proves that fossil fuels are a naturally renewable resource?

      I’ll have to look in my files for them….

      Report this comment

      The-Monk  
    • progressiveslayer
      Posted on October 12, 2012 at 5:45pm

      Hi Monk,
      I haven’t had the time to look into that specifically or if it’s even possible but I stand by those numbers.

      Report this comment

      progressiveslayer  
    • The-Monk
      Posted on October 12, 2012 at 5:52pm

      Hi Progressiveslayer,

      I’ll find the info and post the links to you wherever you are currently at on The Blaze.

      Report this comment

      The-Monk  
    • SocialistSlayer
      Posted on October 13, 2012 at 10:23am

      Who cares if they are renewable? We have enough (Known) Coal, Natural Gas and oil in North America to last over 500 years. If we can’t come up with alternatives in that amount of time too bad.

      Report this comment

      SocialistSlayer  
  • PIGSWILLNEVERFLY
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:42pm

    Isn’t an EMP due Iran before they do us or Israel? How many centuries has this been going on now?

    Islamic Supremacy Must Be Stopped.

    http://www.military.com/daily-news/2012/10/11/us-troops-sent-to-jordan-as-check-on-syria.html

    Report this comment

    PIGSWILLNEVERFLY  
  • Anonymous T. Irrelevant
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:38pm

    Iran is not a threat, right Joe?

    Report this comment

    Anonymous T. Irrelevant  
    • riseandshine
      Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:55pm

      Our biggest threat by far is our government.

      Report this comment

      riseandshine  
    • Rothbardian_in_the_Cleve
      Posted on October 12, 2012 at 3:15pm

      You’re kidding right?

      How many times are people like you going to take this bait?

      1. Look at Iran. We have parked 1/2 our military at their borders. We are crashing their currency and are driving sanctions. If roles were reversed how would Americans react?

      2. This will be used to pass more regulation and set up a larger agency and expand the police state to remove what little bit is left of your electronic privacy.

      But hey, you’ll be safe from a threat that never was. Good for you.

      Report this comment

      Rothbardian_in_the_Cleve  
  • AJAYW
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:27pm

    Iran knows this nothing but idle talk from Obama ,Panetta and Holder all threa are racist commies. And will do all they can to help Iran get a bomb.

    Report this comment

    AJAYW  
  • riseandshine
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:23pm

    I trust Leon Panetta…..ha.

    Report this comment

    riseandshine  
  • IOWAGIR
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:23pm

    They’re setting the scene and preparing the public for a freeze of all comunications and martial law. There will be a major disaster perp. by some in our own government to make it look like they are taking controll for the safety of the American people. I get the feeling that something big is just around the corner. Something will disrupt the elections. I may be wrong but something stinks to high Heaven.

    Report this comment

    IOWAGIR  
    • AJAYW
      Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:28pm

      I think you have a point.

      Report this comment

      AJAYW  
    • lildrummerboy
      Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:37pm

      I think you are right..read Ron Paul’s Revolution. He states that the government wants a war with Iran. Also they can get this cyber law into effect through executive order. I think we are going to see several things come up soon that are big. One, they are laying the groundwork for oil imports to be wiped out causing nationwide panic because of potential “Iranian hackers”. All they have to say is that Iran hacked the Oil companies again stopping shipments, all customer data was lost, no one knows where and how much oil goes to which customer. Then we can declare war as an act of aggression. Pretty far fetched, but its plausible. This again would cause panic globally and for the US it would cause such a panic there would be chaos and everyone fighting and stealing gas. Hence martial law! Again sounds like fictional movie, but plausible

      Report this comment

      lildrummerboy  
    • anothercomment
      Posted on October 12, 2012 at 5:50pm

      I’m sitting here reading the post and thinking, Iran can’t feed their own people, and they are capable of cyber-attacks? Only if they out-source! Then I read your post and I remembered that the SSA purchased 174,000 rounds to be distributed across the US. And the other rumors…..

      Report this comment

      anothercomment  
    • devildogger
      Posted on October 13, 2012 at 4:16am

      Thank Providence for the 2nd Amendment. Buy more ammo, patriots.

      Report this comment

      devildogger  
  • progressiveslayer
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:21pm

    “Our mission is to defend the nation. We defend. We deter. And if called upon, we take decisive action to protect our citizens,” he said.

    Did a great job in Libya,let’s ask the ambassador about security oh wait we can’t.

    Report this comment

    progressiveslayer  
  • The-Monk
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:17pm

    “Potential aggressors should be aware that the United States has the capacity to locate them and hold them accountable for actions that harm America or its interests,” said Panetta…”

    Tell that to Ambassador Christopher Stevens and Brian Terry’s families…. Leon!

    Report this comment

    The-Monk  
    • devildogger
      Posted on October 13, 2012 at 4:14am

      Panetta has to warn the mullahs because obama won’t lift as finger to defend this country against muslims. Panetta made the call on Osama. Barry was out playing golf or something.

      Report this comment

      devildogger  
  • Gonzo
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:13pm

    I heard a polite young man talking about this kind of disrespect for our country from the Islamic world last night. I think he said it had something to do with our president’s weakness in the face of aggression I couldn’t hear him very well though. There was some crazy old drunk who kept laughing and interrupting him.

    Report this comment

    Gonzo  
  • KidCharlemagne
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:12pm

    Isn’t Panetta being a hypocrite in this case though?:

    http://www.theblaze.com/stories/report-stuxnet-cyberattack-was-the-work-of-u-s-and-israel/

    Report this comment

    KidCharlemagne  
  • Larry E
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:09pm

    And what will this administration do? Screech like little girls getting their pigtails pulled? That’s about all they’re good for. Well, that and getting American troops killed with their asinine Rules of Engagement and pansy scampering around reality.

    Report this comment

    Larry E  
  • Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:08pm

    With Panetta making the statement I have to wonder – real event from Iran, another Obama ‘wag the dog’ moment or someone from inside the Fed’s staging the event to blame Iran as Obama’s numbers plunge through the floor?

    Report this comment

    Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}  
  • progressiveslayer
    Posted on October 12, 2012 at 2:06pm

    If we just exploited all our natural resoyrces here we wouldn’t have to deal with the lunatics in the middle east for our oil. That makes too much sense though can’t do that,no Barry will continue wasting billions of dollars on the pipe dream of so called ‘green energy’.

    Report this comment

    progressiveslayer  

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