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Dutch Intelligence Uncovers Russian Cyber Spying on Western Arms Supply to Ukraine

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Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko
Dariia Mykhailenko
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Dutch Intelligence Uncovers Russian Cyber Spying on Western Arms Supply to Ukraine
Hacker with code on computer, programming and phishing scam with malware or virus. Illustrative photo. (Source: Getty Images)

A pro-Russian hacker group has been conducting cyber espionage operations aimed at gathering information on Western military production and procurement, including systems designated for Ukraine. The activity was traced to the Russian-linked group known as Laundry Bear.

This was reported by Reuters on May 27.

According to a joint report by the Dutch General Intelligence and Security Service and the Military Intelligence and Security Service, the group targeted government and commercial entities in the Netherlands, as well as other NATO and EU member states.

The cyberattacks remained undetected until September 2024, when hackers accessed confidential information belonging to Dutch police personnel. Initially, the breach was believed to involve names, official email addresses, and phone numbers of nearly 65,000 police employees. Later findings confirmed that personal data had also been compromised in some cases.

The investigation revealed that Laundry Bear focused on collecting intelligence related to Western defense manufacturing and procurement efforts, with particular interest in equipment destined for Ukraine. The group also attempted to obtain sensitive data on high-tech products that are currently restricted from export to Russia under international sanctions.

Earlier, the United Kingdom had accused Russia’s military intelligence agency, the GRU, of coordinating a broad cyber campaign targeting Western logistical and technological support for Ukraine.

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