Hackers tied to Russian intelligence service tried to attack Ukrainian critical infrastructure systems

The State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine reports. 

It is known that the government's computer emergency response team CERT-UA has exposed plans by Sandworm hackers to attack about 20 Ukrainian energy, heating and water supply companies in ten regions of the country.

 "The Sandworm group, whose activities are associated with the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation (formerly known as the GRU), is one of the most active and dangerous," the statement emphasizes.

It is noted that almost 20 Ukrainian companies providing services in the fields of energy, water and heat supply were under the supervision of hackers. The attackers used supply chain attacks to gain initial access. As a result, Sandworm wanted to disable the equipment of information and communication systems, which could have caused Ukraine more damage against the backdrop of Russia's spring missile attacks on critical infrastructure. 

"This attack is evidence that Russia continues to use cyberattacks as a weapon against Ukraine. In particular, the Sandworm group continues to actively attack Ukraine," the State Special Communications Service added. 

• On March 30, it became known that Ukrainian hackers had gained access to more than 100 Russian websites.