Russian intelligence hacked into two online surveillance cameras in Kyiv [1] [3] [5] [6], Ukraine [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6], to spy on air defense operations during a missile attack on January 2nd, 2024 [2]. This breach allowed them to monitor the results of missile strikes and target air defense assets and critical infrastructure [2].
Description
According to Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) [1], the hackers gained control of two online surveillance cameras that were originally installed by residents for civilian surveillance. They were able to change the camera settings and record visual information. Once the SBU identified the locations of the hacked cameras, they quickly located and disabled them. It has also been discovered that Russian intelligence services may have been receiving video footage from thousands of Ukrainian surveillance cameras that use Russian Trassir software [6]. These cameras not only record movements but also have facial and license plate recognition capabilities [6]. To counter these threats, the SBU has been actively blocking the operation of IP cameras that could potentially be used by Russia for coordinating missile attacks [6]. Since February 2022 [2], they have taken down 10,000 IP cameras due to their potential use by Russian forces for intelligence gathering and strike adjustment [2]. The SBU continues to take measures to neutralize further attempts by the enemy to conduct reconnaissance and undermine activities through online cameras [2]. They have urged people to stop online broadcasts from their webcams and report any suspicious activity to their official chatbot [1].
Conclusion
The missile attack launched by Russia on January 2nd, 2024 resulted in the death of five people and injured 129 others. This incident marks a concerning escalation in Russia’s aggressive actions against Ukraine [4]. The SBU’s efforts to disable and block IP cameras used for intelligence gathering and strike coordination are crucial in mitigating future attacks. However, it is clear that further measures need to be taken to ensure the security of Ukraine’s surveillance systems and prevent future breaches by Russian intelligence.
References
[1] https://news.yahoo.com/russia-hacked-kyiv-surveillance-cameras-132627907.html
[2] https://en.defence-ua.com/news/hackedintowebcamstospyonukrainianairdefenserussianscheme_uncovered-9072.html
[3] https://ciso2ciso.com/russia-spies-on-kyiv-defenses-via-hacked-cameras-before-missile-strikes-source-www-infosecurity-magazine-com/
[4] https://usaherald.com/russia-hacked-ukraines-surveillance-cameras-to-coordinate-attack-on-kyiv/
[5] https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/russia-spies-kyiv-hacked-cameras/
[6] https://kyivindependent.com/sbu-blocks-surveillance-cameras-hacked-by-russians-to-spy-on-targets-in-kyiv/
