Russian hackers have allegedly stolen hundreds of Ministry of Defence (MoD) computer log-ins in a significant security breach. The MoD is currently investigating the incident, which saw emails and passwords belonging to almost 600 employees—including UK Armed personnel, civil servants, and defence contractors—stolen and leaked on the dark web by cybercriminal groups since 2020. The stolen data includes email addresses and other login information necessary to access the MoD’s Defence Gateway portal, an online platform for British military personnel.
Although the system does not contain classified information, it is integral to staff communication and provides access to human resources and other essential services. Most of the data is believed to have been stolen from staff using personal devices to access the online platform. The MoD has reiterated its commitment to continually investigating the theft of credentials.
An intelligence source described the activity as a potential first stage of a covert recruitment operation by adversaries.
Mod logins breach by russian hackers
“Stolen data provides hackers with personal information hostile actors can then use to coerce or blackmail employees,” they said.
The stolen data poses a greater risk to individuals rather than the institution itself, with the potential for blackmailing members of the armed forces. A government spokesperson emphasized the importance of maintaining vigilance against cyber threats. “We take a robust response to cyber threats that endanger our national interests and work round the clock to address vulnerabilities and protect critical services,” they said.
This revelation follows reports that British spies are taking “covert action” against Russia to assist Ukraine in resisting Vladimir Putin’s invasion. The head of MI6, Sir Richard Moore, speaking in Paris, accused Russia of conducting a “staggeringly reckless” campaign of sabotage across Europe and warned of potential threats to NATO’s eastern flank. Meanwhile, former CIA analyst David McCloskey explained that Russia is recruiting amateur criminal gangs to spy on Britain and execute sabotage operations across Europe amidst rising global tensions.
