NATO is investigating a cyber attack that has compromised the organization’s strategic files.
The incident was traced back to a hacktivist group called SiegedSec. The activity resulted in stolen documentation on planning and research as well as issues with the alliance’s unclassified websites, a report from CNN stated.
The damage has since raised doubts about NATO’s competence to secure its communication network security as the same capability is used to relay “critical but non-public insights on emerging technologies and security threats,” the report added.
“NATO is facing persistent cyber threats and takes cyber security seriously,” NATO said, adding that cyber experts were addressing incidents affecting unclassified NATO websites.
“Additional cyber security measures have been put in place. There has been no impact on NATO missions, operations and military deployments.”
Documents Posted Online, ‘Lessons Learned’ Next
SiegedSec leaked the stolen documents online following the attack.
Critical information shared involved subjects such as drone threats, hypersonic weapons, and experiments related to radioactive waste.
The cybercriminals published the policies on Telegram while taking credit for previous intrusions into NATO’s cyberspace.
SiegedSec said it was the second time it had attacked the organization in three months. Among its plans is to breach the alliance’s “lessons learned” online assets leveraged to exchange strategic insights between military officials of members.
SiegedSec Hacktivist Group
SiegedSec gained the attention of the international defense community during Russia’s attack on Ukraine in February 2022. Some sources claim the group “coincidentally” emerged days prior to the invasion.
Since its discovery, the group has disrupted several online military and government assets, especially in the US.
Among their recent disruptions was the attack on the local government website of Forth Worth, Texas.
The group also targets the supply chain to exploit energy companies associated with current technologies, such as satellite receivers and communication networks.
Other SiegedSec hacks are reportedly facilitated due to a target’s restrictions on abortions or gender-affirming care.