TLDR

Germany has summoned a top Russian envoy over cyber-attacks targeting politicians and the defense sector. The attacks were linked to Russian military intelligence and exploited a vulnerability in Microsoft Outlook. This state-sponsored cyber-attack is deemed intolerable and unacceptable.

Germany Summons Russian Envoy Over 2023 Cyber-Attacks

Germany has summoned a top Russian envoy over a series of cyber-attacks targeting members of the governing Social Democrats and its defense and technology sector. The 2023 attacks, attributed to a hacker group linked to Russian military intelligence, were in response to Berlin’s decision to send tanks to Ukraine.

The key elements of the article include:

• Cyber-attacks targeted politicians and the defense sector in Germany
• The attacks exploited a vulnerability in Microsoft Outlook
• German officials attributed the attacks to a group linked to Russian military intelligence
• Germany called the attacks intolerable and unacceptable and vowed consequences

APT28, also known as Fancy Bear, has been accused of numerous cyber-attacks worldwide using sophisticated tools. The EU and Nato condemned the cyber-attacks on Germany and the Czech Republic, highlighting the persistent threats from cyber actors.

Russia’s use of disinformation and cyber-attacks as part of its hybrid war against Ukraine and the EU was also discussed. The importance of countering disinformation and cyber threats was emphasized by EU leaders and Nato.

Ultimately, Germany’s response to these cyber-attacks includes potential sanctions against individuals working with the hacker group responsible, underscoring the seriousness with which such attacks are viewed by the international community.