Czech Republic Targeted by Russian Hackers in Cyber Espionage Campaign

The Czech Republic has become the latest victim of a series of cyberattacks orchestrated by APT28, a Russian state-controlled hacker group associated with the Russian military intelligence service GRU. The attacks, which exploited a previously unknown vulnerability in Microsoft Outlook, have compromised several critical Czech institutions, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Why this matters: These cyberattacks pose a significant threat to national security and democratic processes, highlighting the need for countries to bolster their cybersecurity measures to prevent foreign interference. These cyberattacks pose a significant threat to national security and democratic processes, highlighting the need for countries to bolster their cybersecurity measures to prevent foreign interference. The increasing reliance on digital infrastructure means that the implications of such attacks could have far-reaching consequences for global stability and security.

Lukáš Kintr, Director of the Czech National Office for Cyber and Information Security (NÚKIB), reveals that the attacks are part of a long-term cyber espionage campaign conducted by APT28 across European countries. "It is necessary to send a clear signal not only to Russia but also to other potential attackers that cyberattacks against the Czech Republic are completely unacceptable," Kintr emphasizes.

Over the past 18 months, the attacks have targeted a wide range of Czech institutions, including a major bank, television and news agency websites, government ministries, the police force, Prague Airport, and both houses of parliament. Although the attacks were swiftly detected and resolved by Czech authorities, the Czech Foreign Ministry confirms the involvement of the Russian military intelligence service GRU in these malicious activities.

Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský strongly condemns the attacks, stating,"Russia's deliberate attacks are aimed at seriously threatening Czechia's security and stability. The Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the gravity of these actions, particularly in light of the upcoming European elections, national elections in several European countries, and the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine.

The international community rallies insupportof the Czech Republic, with both NATO and the EU vehemently denouncing the attacks. A NATO statement declares,"We strongly condemn malicious cyber activities intended to undermine our democratic institutions, national security, and free society. Josep Borrell, EU diplomatic service chief, adds, "The EU will not tolerate such malicious behavior, particularly activities that aim to degrade our critical infrastructure, weaken community cohesion, and influence democratic processes."

Czech authorities stress that these cyberattacks pose a threat not only to national security but also to the democratic processes that form the foundation of free societies. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls on the Russian Federation to refrain from such actions, emphasizing that APT28's activities violate UN norms of responsible state behavior in cyberspace and other international commitments.

The investigation into the cyberattacks continues, with affected subjects being provided technical recommendations and cooperation to bolster their security measures. The Czech Republic remains gravely concerned by these repeated cyberattacks by state actors and is resolute in its determination to respond forcefully in collaboration with its European and international partners to safeguard its institutions and democratic processes.

Key Takeaways

• Czech Republic targeted by Russian state-controlled hacker group APT28.
• Attacks exploited unknown Microsoft Outlook vulnerability, compromising institutions.
• Cyberattacks pose significant threat to national security and democratic processes.
• International community, including NATO and EU, condemn the attacks.
• Czech Republic calls on Russia to refrain from such actions, vows to respond forcefully.