Dutch intelligence exposes Russian hacking group targeting NATO
Dutch intelligence agencies have disclosed that a Russian group known as Laundry Bear is responsible for cyberattacks targeting Dutch police and NATO institutions. The hackers accessed data belonging to 63,000 police officers. This group has been active since 2024, targeting Western institutions and technology companies.
What do you need to know?
- Who is behind the attacks? Dutch intelligence agencies identify the culprits as the Russian group Laundry Bear.
- When were the attacks discovered? These hacking activities came to light in September 2024, when it was uncovered that they had infiltrated the data of 63,000 Dutch police officers.
- Why is it important? Besides, the group attacked companies specialising in advanced technologies, aiming to collect information on arms supplies to Ukraine and the production of military equipment.
What are the objectives of Laundry Bear?
The Dutch intelligence agencies, AIVD and MIVD, have reported that the Laundry Bear group, likely supported by the Russian state, has targeted not only the Dutch police but also firms with cutting-edge technologies.
The hackers' objective is to acquire information about arms transfers to Ukraine and the purchasing and manufacturing of military equipment by Western governments.
What actions were taken after the attacks were discovered?
Following the exposure of Laundry Bear's activities, Dutch intelligence services opted to publish a report revealing the hackers' methods.
Intelligence leaders Erik Akerboom and Vice Admiral Peter Reesink stated that the report's release intends to diminish the group's effectiveness and advocate for improved protection of digital networks.
