US Charges 17 Iranians in Massive $3.4 Billion Hacking Spree

The US charged 17 Iranians on August 18, 2026 for stealing research and trade secrets — worth about $3.4 billion — from 144 universities, 42 companies, and several government agencies. Officials say many hackers worked for Iran's powerful military force, the Revolutionary Guard. The government is offering $10 million for help finding five of the suspects.