Russian hackers are trying to set up video calls to spread anti-Western propaganda

Date:
Thu, 09 Mar 2023 16:10:44 +0000

Description:
Western executives and politicians are being invited to video calls with people impersonating Ukrainian officials.

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A pro-Russia propaganda campaign has been uncovered which has tricked C-level executives and high-level officials alike, experts have warned.

A report from cybersecurity researchers Proofpoint says the campaign should not be taken lightly, as the damage such propaganda could have on the brand and public perception of those targeted is real.

Whats more, the perpetuation of disinformation isnt something people should turn a blind eye to. Targeting vocal supporters of Ukraine

As per Proofpoints report, a known threat actor dubbed TA499 (also known as Vovan, or Lexus) is trying to get high-profile individuals on a video or
audio call.

To do that, theyd send out dozens of emails, impersonating Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and his purported assistant, Ukrainian members of parliament, the Embassy of Ukraine to the US, and similar.

With these emails, they would usually target high-level individuals and
public figures who have already spoken out publicly against Russias invasion of Ukraine, or have otherwise helped the cause (through, for example, donations to the Ukrainian government and military).

Some of the people the hackers are targeting are those who supported a bill
to arm Ukraine against Russia, those who supported the sanctions on the Nord Stream II pipeline, and those who supported the bombing of Russian military assets, as well as other military actions. Read more

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Those that end up taking the bait will sit down for a chat with someone who looks very much like the person that they think initially reached out. According to Proofpoint, the fraudsters are either using excessive makeup or artificial intelligence, in order to create convincing deepfake videos. The fraudsters deny using any AI, though.

Those that still dont realize all of it was a trap (due to their
unfamiliarity with the people they think theyre speaking to), will have their call recorded. After a little back-and-forth, the conversation turns to
banter in an attempt to get the guest to make embarrassing comments or acts. The recordings are then edited for emphasis and placed on YouTube and
Twitter. Here's our rundown of the best endpoint protection right now



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Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/news/russian-hackers-are-trying-to-set-up-video-call s-to-spread-anti-western-propaganda


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