Russian Hackers Target Signal Users Globally

Russian intelligence-linked hackers have launched a sweeping global campaign targeting users of popular messaging applications, including Signal. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and U.S. cybersecurity officials disclosed that thousands of individual commercial messaging app accounts have been compromised. Attackers can access victims' messages, contact lists, and send communications while impersonating the account holder.

The operation is specifically targeting individuals deemed to be of "high intelligence value." This includes current and former U.S. government officials, military personnel, political figures, and journalists. The agencies emphasized that the hackers are exploiting users through phishing schemes, rather than breaking the apps' encryption. They often pose as support staff or send fake security alerts to trick users into clicking malicious links or divulging verification codes.