Warning dismissed
Ominous SMS Sparks Panic in Israel: "Watch the Midnight Sky"
Israeli authorities dismissed threatening New Year's spam messages as a psyops campaign with no genuine security threat. The National Cyber Directorate found no evidence of hacking or breaches, calling it an attempt to create fear amid escalating Israel-Iran tensions.
Thousands of Israelis received a cryptic text message on Saturday afternoon, urging them to "watch the midnight sky," igniting widespread speculation and fear amid heightened tensions with Iran. The message, sent in English from a UK-based phone number at approximately 2:47 p.m. local time, quickly went viral on social media, with users linking it to potential threats like missile strikes or drone attacks.
Israel's National Cyber Directorate (INCD) swiftly investigated the incident and classified it as a "harmless mass spam campaign" designed solely to sow panic and disrupt daily life. "There is no evidence of hacking, data breaches, or any genuine security threat," an INCD spokesperson stated in an official release.
Officials emphasized that such psychological tactics are not uncommon in the region, particularly given ongoing regional conflicts.
The timing of the message amplified concerns, coming against the backdrop of escalating Israel-Iran tensions. Iran has been facing internal turmoil, including nationwide protests over economic collapse and U.N. sanctions, exacerbated by Israel's military actions against Iranian nuclear sites in June 2025.
Similar incidents in recent months have included spam texts from Iranian numbers attempting to recruit agents or spread intimidation. Social media platforms buzzed with reactions, ranging from humorous memes to serious discussions about cyber warfare.
One X user posted, "Is this Iran's idea of a New Year's prank? Or something more sinister?"
Despite the online frenzy, no follow-up events or unusual activities were reported by evening.
Authorities advised the public to block the originating number, delete the message without responding, and report any similar communications through official channels. "We urge everyone to remain calm and continue with normal activities," the INCD added. "These attempts to create fear are ineffective and will not succeed."