Russian Cyber Attack Targets Coronavirus Vaccine Research
On Thursday the UK, Canada and the US announced that a Russian cyber‑attack is underway, with cyber‑spies hunting for data on coronavirus vaccine research.
UK’s GCHQ Fights Back
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) – the UK’s cyber‑security skull – is steering the defense of science labs and other critical sites. They flagged a hacker group called APT29 (aka “Cozy Bear”), claiming it “almost certainly operates as part of Russian intelligence services.” That’s a pretty big allegation.
CrowdStrike’s Take
Cyber‑security firm CrowdStrike has linked the attackers to the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) and the Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR). It’s a high‑stakes game of cyber espionage, folks!
“Despicable” Statements From the UK
- Tony Chichester, NCSC director of operations, condemned the attacks, declaring a “focus on protecting our most critical assets – especially the health sector.” He urged organisations to read up on the NCSC’s defensive guidance.
- Prime Minister buddy Boris Johnson’ official spokesman blasted the attacks as “despicable,” vowing to hold the cyber‑villains in account with allies.
- Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab called the targeting “completely unacceptable,” promising the UK and its partners to keep hunting down these cyber‑crimes.
In the words of the officials, “While others burn their own bridges, we’ll keep pushing to crack the virus and protect global health.”
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