Tensions between the West and Russia have run high ahead of the U.S. presidential election. The United States has offered a reward of up to $10 million for information about a Russian hacker group. Dutch intelligence services are also warning of possible actions by this group.
Poisoning Sergei Skripal
The hacker group is part of the Russian military secret service GRU, specifically a unit called 29155. This unit is associated with destabilizing activities, including attempted coups and physical sabotage in Europe. The group is held responsible for, among other things, the poisoning of former GRU agent Sergei Skripal in 2018 and a failed coup in Montenegro.
While the unit previously moved mainly offline, it has become increasingly active on the digital front in recent years. The U.S. FBI is now warning that this group may have plans to disrupt the upcoming presidential election.
Western governments
It is not just about disrupting U.S. elections. The unit is targeting all Western governments supporting Ukraine, warns the Dutch military intelligence service MIVD. Intelligence services from several countries have therefore jointly issued a technical advisory, explaining how countries and organizations can recognize Russian operations and what measures they can take.
Netherlands as a target
According to MIVD Director Peter Reesink, the Netherlands has not so far been a target of cyber attacks by this notorious unit. However, he emphasizes that we must remain alert. Although the Netherlands is small, we are an attractive target for hackers. AMS-IX, one of the most important Internet hubs in the world, is located here, and the port of Rotterdam receives crucial deliveries. In addition, the Netherlands is an outspoken supporter of Ukraine and an important NATO partner.
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