The UK government accuses Russia's Security Service (FSB) of orchestrating a prolonged cyber-hacking campaign targeting politicians and prominent figures.
The alleged group, linked to the FSB's Centre 18, stands accused of stealing sensitive data through cyber-attacks, including materials related to the 2019 election.
FSB Accused of Cyberespionage Campaign
It's a known fact that the US and Russia have a conflict when it comes to political interest and cybersecurity. However, it's surprising to see that the UK is also traversing the same path that Uncle Sam has taken.
In a report by BBC, Foreign Secretary David Cameron condemned the FSB's actions, deeming them "completely unacceptable." Despite Moscow's repeated denial of involvement in such activities, the UK vows to collaborate with allies to expose covert cyber activities and hold Russia accountable.
Meanwhile, Foreign Office Minister Leo Docherty announced the summoning of Russia's ambassador and imposed sanctions on two individuals, one of whom is a serving FSB officer.
While the Russian ambassador was unavailable, the British government expressed deep concerns about the alleged cyber-attacks through diplomatic channels.
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Who Are the Targets of Russian Hackers?
The accused group reportedly executed highly targeted hacks against politicians, civil servants, journalists, academics, and others in public life.
In another report by The Record, the US said that that the common targets share "predictable interest to the FSB." Additionally, it was also mentioned in the report that there are "personal accounts belonging to Russian journalists, and even officials from both Moscow and Washington.
Employing meticulous research, they created false accounts impersonating trusted contacts, mainly targeting private emails. The victims span the political spectrum, indicating a broad-reaching campaign.
"Because of the UK's support for Ukraine we are in a state of 'gray warfare' with Russia; and the Russians will use every means at their disposal to attack British interests short of open conflict," MI6, the British Secret Intelligence Service's former head Richard Dearlove, told Reuters.
History of Cyber Intrusion
The FSB-linked group, active since at least 2015, is accused of acquiring a vast amount of data, contributing to undermining the West.
Although the US is expected to announce action against the group, the campaign is deemed unsuccessful in interfering with the democratic process. The public accusation aims to disrupt the group's activities ahead of major global elections.
The western officials said that there is a possibility that the Russian hackers could leak the data that they gathered.
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