Microsoft Hits Russian Hackers in a New Attack on US Think‑Tanks
Microsoft’s latest security report reveals that the Russian syndicate linked to 2016’s Hillary Clinton campaign hack—dubbed “Strontium”—has once again schemed to sabotage the online presence of two prominent right‑wing American think‑tanks.
Fake Sites, Real Danger
According to Microsoft officials, these cyber‑spooks set up counterfeit web pages to mimic The International Republican Institute and The Hudson Institute. Users who landed on these bogus sites were met with phishing traps, prompted to submit usernames and passwords.
Microsoft claims it gobbled up the fake sites last week, seizing control of the malicious domains and preventing the hackers from extracting any useful data.
Executive Take‑away:
“We’re concerned that these and other attempts pose security threats to a broadening array of groups connected with both American political parties in the run‑up to the 2018 elections,”
— Brad Smith, Microsoft President.
- Over the past two years, Microsoft has shut down 84 counterfeit websites linked to the infamous Fancy Bear operation.
- Actions involved obtaining court orders to legally transfer domain control.
- Smith stated, “We have no doubt in our minds about who’s behind the attacks.”
While Russian officials have yet to comment, the Kremlin is expected to address the allegations later today. In the meantime, Microsoft urges the public to stay vigilant and double‑check the authenticity of any political website before typing in personal details.
