A popular group of Russian hackers is suspected of breaking into the White House’s executive computers.
The break-in reportedly occurred a few weeks ago, but no important files were compromised. The FBI and Secret Service have launched investigations into the breach.
Hackers thought to be working for the Russian government breached the unclassified White House computer networks in recent weeks, sources said, resulting in temporary disruptions to some services while cybersecurity teams worked to contain the intrusion.
White House officials said that such an intrusion was not unexpected. “On a regular basis, there are bad actors out there who are attempting to achieve intrusions into our system,” said a second White House official. “This is a constant battle for the government and our sensitive government computer systems, so it’s always a concern for us that individuals are trying to compromise systems and get access to our networks.”
Some staffers were asked to change their passwords. Email addresses and other important profiles were not suspended due to the attack.
Russian hackers were suspected of the breach due to suspicions of past break-ins against targets NATO, the country’s defense contractors, and the Ukrainian government. The hackers were allegedly able to get in through a bug in Microsoft’s operating system.
Recent reports by security firms have identified cyber-espionage campaigns by Russian hackers thought to be working for the government. Targets have included NATO, the Ukrainian government and U.S. defense contractors. Russia is regarded by U.S. officials as being in the top tier of states with cyber-capabilities.
In light of the breach, officials announced plans to put together a military organization to help defend cyberattacks called U.S. Cyber Command. The group will staff 6,000, and expects to begin operations by 2016.
SOURCE: Washington Post | PHOTO CREDIT: Getty
