Heightened Threat from Cyber or Physical Attacks: Is Your Agency Prepared?

On June 21, 2025, the United States carried out airstrikes on nuclear sites in Iran. In retaliation for these airstrikes, Iran fired missiles at a US military base in Qatar. Shortly after the Iranian missile strikes, a ceasefire was instituted between Israel and Iran. In response to these events, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a National Terrorism Advisory System Bulletin that highlights heightened risks to the United States from pro-Iranian groups and the Iranian government. The threats highlighted in the bulletin are physical and cyber-attacks, especially ones aimed at hospitals, water dams, and power plants across the US.

There has been a history of cyberattacks carried out by Iran that have targeted US water facilities and hospital networks. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), a part of DHS, "is actively coordinating with government, industry, and international partners to share actionable intelligence and strengthen collective defense,” according to CISA spokesperson Marci McCarthy. With such a heightened focus on current cybersecurity threats, there is pressure on DHS and other federal officers to ensure the security of the US and its infrastructure. The bulletin also warned of potential terrorist attacks in the physical realm. With the possibility of security breaches and incidents, federal law enforcement personnel will be under a microscope. A FEDS Protection professional liability insurance (PLI) policy can provide much-needed peace of mind to federal agents as they navigate this unprecedented situation. 

While war is generally characterized by airstrikes, bombs, and physical battles, cyber-attacks have been the weapon of choice for Iran when facing the United States. Experts have said that "for Iran, retaliation against the US is far easier in cyberspace than physically.” They are able to target necessities of everyday life that allow for maximum disruption. Their main targets (hospitals, water dams, and power plants) are essential to daily life and, if disabled, can cause chaos amongst the American public and government alike. 

The American public will be looking to the government to monitor these threats and quickly remedy the disruptions if attacked. Federal agents will have little-to-no margin for error when responding to these attacks. According to John Riggi, a former FBI official, "heightened vigilance and reporting is warranted for both cyber and physical threats.” Close relationships and open communication between government agencies and vulnerable entities will be essential for not only preventing attacks but also providing swift solutions when affected. 

With heightened threats to the United States, both physical and cyber alike, federal agents will be tasked with safeguarding the American public. It is important now more than ever to protect yourself against allegations of wrongdoing.  If an allegation is made against you, it is a necessity, not luxury, to have knowledgeable and effective counsel advocating on your behalf.

As the professional liability insurance (PLI) provider endorsed by the leading federal law enforcement employee associations, FEDS Protection offers federal employee PLI policies with $1 million, $2 million, or $3 million in civil liability protection for attorney’s fees and indemnity costs in the event you are sued in your civil capacity.  The FEDS policy also includes $200,000 of legal representation coverage per incident for administrative actions and $100,000 of coverage for criminal defense costs.

Annual premiums for FEDS Protection PLI start at $290.  Additionally, federal law enforcement officers, supervisors, and managers are eligible for a reimbursement of up to 50% the cost of their PLI policy through their agency. To learn more about how a FEDS PLI policy can protect you and your career, visit www.fedsprotection.com or call (866) 955-FEDS, M-F 8:30am-6pm to speak directly to a representative.

*This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.