Journalist Michael Hauser Tov reports that a WhatsApp group called 'Shadow of the Hidden' was opened several days ago and that several journalists were added to it. He states he does not know whether the group's goal is to deliver malware or spread disinformation, and issues a public warning. The report is single-sourced and the group's activity remains unverified.
The warning was issued by journalist Michael Hauser Tov, who reported that a WhatsApp group named 'Shadow of the Hidden' (צל הנסתר) was set up days ago and included multiple journalists. The group's purpose is unclear, with Hauser Tov noting that it could be an attempt to spread malware or disinformation, possibly linked to Iranian influence operations.
The Zioneer has previously covered alleged Iranian influence campaigns, including a reported hack of former MK Mussi Raz's Twitter account (July 24, 2026) and a Mossad Persian account posting hints about Iranian officials. The current report is single-sourced and unverified; no further details about the group's activity or membership have been confirmed.
- DevelopingMeta says NSO Group targeted WhatsApp users in Jordan and Lebanon despite court ban
- DevelopingWhatsApp asks US court to sanction Israeli cyber firm NSO Group
- DevelopingIranian attack group reportedly hacked former MK Mussi Raz's Twitter account, tried to trap journalists
- DevelopingIsraeli security agencies enlist Haredi rabbis, influencers to counter Iranian espionage
Source and signal
A single-sourced dispatch is never rated Confirmed or Strong. Its Signal strengthens only when a second, independent source corroborates it.
- Open-source intake