U.S. authorities and Microsoft say hackers linked to Russian intelligence targeted dozens of former military and intelligence officials, journalists and civil society groups with a sophisticated campaign designed to steal information.

Since the start of 2023, Microsoft had observed Star Blizzard attack over 30 organizations including NGOs, journalists, and think tanks. The attacks primarily consisted of a spear phishing campaigns to exfiltrate sensitive data from victims and obstruct activities aimed at preserving democratic processes.

Microsoft and the US government have collectively seized over 100 websites used by Russian nation-state actor Star Blizzard

Microsoft and the Justice Department have thwarted a significant Russian cyber campaign targeting democratic institutions ahead of the presidential election.

Microsoft's Digital Crimes Unit and the US Department of Justice have seized 107 websites used by a hacking group linked to Russian intelligence. This action, targeting the Star Blizzard group, aimed to disrupt operations exploiting phishing emails to steal sensitive information from US organisations and individuals.

Over 40 internet domains allegedly used by Russian intelligence to try and gain access to computers and emails used across the US government were seized yesterday.