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Russian Hackers Target Signal & WhatsApp Users
9 Mar
Summary
- Hackers trick users into revealing security codes via chats.
- Targeted individuals include officials, military, and journalists.
- Messaging apps unsuitable for classified information, agencies warn.
A global cyber campaign by Russian-backed hackers aims to breach Signal and WhatsApp accounts used by officials, military personnel, and journalists. The hackers employ social engineering tactics, convincing targets in chats to reveal security verification and pin codes. This malicious activity has likely resulted in the compromise of sensitive information.
Both the Dutch General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD) and the Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD) issued a joint warning on Monday. They noted that Dutch government employees and journalists are among those targeted. The agencies emphasized that even encrypted applications like Signal and WhatsApp should not be used for confidential or classified communications.
Hackers frequently pose as a Signal Support chatbot to trick users into divulging the necessary codes. Other methods include exploiting Signal's 'linked devices' feature. Red flags for compromised accounts include contacts appearing twice or showing as 'deleted account.' Dutch authorities have issued cyber advisories to assist potential victims.
