Tag: MENA

BusinessCybersecurityTechnology

Iranian MuddyWater Hackers Infiltrate Over 100 Government Networks in MENA Region

Iranian state-linked hackers have compromised more than 100 government and diplomatic networks across the Middle East and North Africa. The MuddyWater group used hijacked email accounts and VPN services to deploy sophisticated malware in a months-long campaign.

Widespread Government Network Breaches

Security researchers have uncovered a major cyberespionage campaign targeting government entities across the Middle East and North Africa, with Iranian-linked hackers reportedly breaching more than 100 organizations. According to reports from cybersecurity firm Group-IB, the MuddyWater group – also known as APT34, OilRig, and TA450 – has been conducting this sophisticated operation since August, focusing primarily on diplomatic and government networks.

by Alvarez Jordan
AISoftwareStartups

Cercli Secures $12M in Oversubscribed Series A to Expand AI-First HR Platform Across MENA Region

Cercli, an AI-powered HR and payroll platform designed for MENA businesses, has raised an oversubscribed $12 million Series A. The startup reports scaling revenue over 10x and processing $100M+ in annual payroll, leveraging AI-native architecture to challenge legacy systems.

Oversubscribed Funding Round

Cercli, a Dubai-based HR technology startup, has reportedly raised $12 million in an oversubscribed Series A funding round led by European venture capital firm Picus Capital. According to reports, the round saw participation from Knollwood Investment Advisory and existing investors Y Combinator, Afore Capital, and COTU Ventures. This investment marks Picus Capital’s first venture into the MENA region, with the firm having previously backed global HR companies such as Personio and Deel.

by Alvarez Jordan