WASHINGTON – A new federal warning is urging the public to be on alert after investigators identified a widespread cyber campaign tied to Russian intelligence actors targeting personal messaging accounts.
According to a recent public service announcement from the FBI, the operation is aimed at gaining unauthorized access to accounts on commercial messaging applications, particularly those belonging to individuals considered to have high intelligence value. Authorities say the campaign has already resulted in thousands of compromised accounts worldwide.
The FBI says the attackers are using sophisticated phishing tactics to trick users into handing over access to their accounts.
In many cases, cyber actors pose as automated support accounts or even as people the victim knows. Victims then receive messages designed to appear legitimate, often urging them to click a link or provide verification codes or account PINs.
Once that information is obtained, investigators say the attackers can link their own device to the victim’s account or take full control of it.
Federal officials warn that the tactics are evolving and could expand to include additional methods.
The FBI is urging users to take precautions, including avoiding unsolicited messages requesting login information, enabling multi-factor authentication, and never sharing verification codes or PINs with anyone.
Officials say awareness is critical as the campaign continues to develop.
