The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has publicly announced its willingness to assist individuals in Iran by providing guidance on secure communication methods. This message was shared on the agency’s official account on the social media platform X on February 24, 2026. The CIA aims to connect with Iranians who may have information or need assistance, outlining specific protocols to ensure their safety during contact.
In its announcement, the CIA emphasized the importance of security when reaching out. The agency provided a list of eight steps to help potential contacts navigate the process safely. Among the first pieces of advice is to avoid using personal or work devices to make contact. Instead, the CIA suggests using a new, disposable device whenever possible. Individuals are urged to be aware of their surroundings and to take precautions against anyone who might observe their screens.
The guidelines recommend using privacy-focused internet browsers such as Google Chrome, Safari, or Firefox in private or incognito mode. Furthermore, the CIA advises clearing search history after establishing contact. For enhanced security, the agency also suggests using the Tor browser, VPN services, or other encryption tools to bypass filters and maintain anonymity.
In the announcement, the CIA included a message in Persian, stating, “سلام. سازمان اطلاعات مرکزی (CIA) صدای شما را میشنود و میخواهد به شما کمک کند,” which translates to “Hello. The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) hears you and wants to help.” This inclusion reflects the agency’s intent to reach a broader audience in Iran.
The CIA’s guidelines also mention that individuals should specify their region, city of residence, name, occupation, and any relevant skills or access to information when contacting the agency. They are requested to provide secure communication details for follow-ups. The agency acknowledges that reviewing messages may take some time and that responses will depend on the assessment of each individual’s security situation.
The CIA’s outreach marks a significant effort to engage with those in Iran, especially amidst the ongoing geopolitical tensions and issues related to civil liberties. By providing clear instructions for secure communication, the agency seeks to establish a channel for information exchange while prioritizing the safety of potential contacts.
This initiative, while unconventional, highlights the CIA’s adaptive approach to intelligence gathering in a rapidly changing global landscape. The agency’s commitment to security and privacy in communication sets a precedent for how intelligence organizations may interact with individuals in politically sensitive regions.
