The U.S. Justice Department has charged seven hackers with ties to the Iranian government, for dozens of damaging cyber-attacks on banks and a small dam outside New York City.
U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch described the attacks as "relentless, systematic and widespread."
"They threatened our economic well-being and our ability to compete fairly in the global marketplace, both of which are directly linked to our national security," Lynch said.
One hacker repeatedly gained access to the control system of the Bowman Avenue Dam, but the dam's gate had been disconnected for maintenance at the time.
None of the suspects is in American custody, and the U.S. does not have an extradition treaty with Iran.
But administration officials say the case sends a warning that mouse clicks can be traced, even far outside our country.
"The message of this case is that we will work together to shrink the world and impose costs on these people so that no matter where they are, we will reach them," said FBI Director James Comey.
The latest indictments are the result of cyber intrusions that were detected from 2011 and 2013.
The intrusions targeted 46 victims, disabled bank websites and caused tens of millions of dollars in losses.
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