#Globalpatternsofcyberactivity

[thxnews]

UK Exposes Russia's Covert Cyber Operations

  The Russian Threat Unmasked

In a recent revelation, the UK Foreign Office has condemned Russia for its sustained and unsuccessful attempts at political interference in the UK and globally. This article delves into the highlights of this alarming disclosure, shedding light on the covert cyber operations conducted by the Russian Intelligence Services.   Centre 18 and Star Blizzard: Key Players in Espionage The Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office has identified Centre 18, a unit within Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), as the orchestrator of cyber espionage operations targeting the UK. At the forefront of these activities is Star Blizzard, a group closely associated with FSB Centre 18. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) asserts that Star Blizzard is responsible for a series of cyber operations with the intent to interfere in UK politics and democratic processes.  

Cyber Targets and Covert Operations

Targets and Tactics The primary targets of these cyber operations include politicians, civil servants, journalists, NGOs, and other civil society organizations. The article explores the tactics employed by Star Blizzard, also known as Callisto Group, SEABORGIUM, or COLDRIVER, in their attempts to infiltrate high-profile individuals and entities through cyber means.   Notable Incidents The UK government has exposed specific incidents orchestrated by the FSB through Star Blizzard. These include spear-phishing attacks on parliamentarians, the hack of UK-US trade documents in 2019, and the compromise of the Institute for Statecraft in 2018. The article provides insights into the implications of these incidents and their potential to undermine trust in politics in the UK.  

Sanctions and Confronting the Threat

Action Against Perpetrators In response to these cyber threats, the UK has taken decisive action. Two members of Star Blizzard, identified as Ruslan Aleksandrovich PERETYATKO and Andrey Stanislavovich KORINETS, have been sanctioned. The Foreign Office has also summoned the Russian Ambassador to express deep concern about Russia's sustained attempts to interfere in the UK's political and democratic processes.   Continuous Vigilance and Global Cooperation Despite the unsuccessful nature of these interference attempts, the UK government emphasizes the need for continuous vigilance. Foreign Secretary David Cameron, Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden, and Home Secretary James Cleverly collectively condemn Russia's attempts and pledge to work with global allies to expose covert cyber activities.  

Looking Ahead: Defending Democracy in the Cyber Era

The Evolving Cyber Landscape In a statement, Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden warns of the persistent threat posed by state actors and sub-state hackers. He highlights the importance of raising defenses and taking proactive measures to counter attempts to undermine democracy in the digital realm.   A Whole-of-Society Approach Home Secretary James Cleverly underscores the gravity of attacks on democratic institutions and asserts that the UK will not tolerate foreign interference. He outlines the National Security Act as a tool to create a tougher operating environment for those seeking to interfere in democratic institutions.  

Global Patterns of Malign Cyber Activity

A Broader Context The disclosed cyber-attacks are part of a broader pattern of malign cyber activity conducted by Russian Intelligence Services globally. The UK and its allies have previously exposed Russian involvement in various cyber incidents, including ViaSat, and SolarWinds, and targeting Critical National Infrastructure.   Recognizing the Adversary - Star Blizzard and Beyond The article concludes with a background on the cyber-attacks committed by the group, known by various names such as Star Blizzard, SEABORGIUM, Callisto Group, and more. It highlights the global context of cyber espionage and emphasizes the need for continued international cooperation to counter such threats.   Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, National Cyber Security Centre, National Crime Agency, The Rt Hon Lord Cameron, The Rt Hon James Cleverly MP, Leo Docherty MP, & The Rt Hon Oliver Dowden CBE MP. Read the full article