New Threats Against Military Members by Group Claiming Ties to ISIS
Military officials are looking into threats against about 100 U.S. Troops, after they are reportedly targeted by an ISIS related group.
The group known as the “Islamic State Hacking Organization”, is calling for the beheadings and attacks inside the United States.
The group posted names, pictures and home addresses of service men and women from all branches of the military.
While the Department of Defense can’t confirm the validity of the threats, they are looking into the claims, saying the safety of service members is always a concern.
On the U.S. Central Command Facebook page, the following message was posted concerning the threats:
“USCENTCOM Chief of Staff sends:
I am sending this message as a reminder regarding vigilance while using Social Media. Recently, a group claiming to represent ISIL has posed more online threats to military servicemembers and their families.
A couple months ago, we reached out to remind you of the reality that we are operating in a ‘new norm’ in which cyber threats are real and constant; any CENTCOM teammate or family member could be targeted. To that end, we all should maintain a heightened sense of vigilance whether dealing with work or home computer usage, specifically as it relates to Social Media.
Adversaries and malicious “cyber” actors continue to use any method possible in an attempt to gain access and exploit any information they can. I ask that you maintain vigilance and continue to safeguard yourself and your family’s security while interfacing on the internet and participating in Social Media.
As I noted before, if you see something, say something. Please discuss with your families and friends that information contained on commercial e-mail and social media sites are often susceptible to these types of harvesting manipulation or exploitation. Just like identity theft, there are bad actors out there trying to gain your information for their own benefit and potentially use it against you.
Helpful information is available to assist you in safely using your personal social media sites and employing the best security measures available:
https://www.us-cert.gov/ncas/tips/ST06-003
We are in the business of protecting our Nation and you are our most valuable asset. Continue to protect yourselves, your families and all of your personal information. If you observe any suspicious activity, anytime during the day or night, you can call the USCENTCOM Command Center at 813-529-3051 or the MacDill AFB Base Defense Operations Center at 813-828-3322. For all emergencies call 911 first.
MICHAEL X. GARRETT
Major General, U.S. Army”
Similar threats have been made before, however these latest threats are being made by a group that is previously unknown, and it’s credibility is unknown as well.
