The U.S. Justice Department and Microsoft have successfully taken control of over 100 websites linked to Russian cybercriminal groups, allegedly involved in large-scale cyber fraud targeting American entities.Â
The group responsible, codenamed “Star Blizzard,” is said to have carried out attacks on over 30 civil society organizations, including journalists, think tanks, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), from January 2023 to August 2024.
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco stated that the Russian government was using these websites to steal sensitive information from Americans through fake email accounts.
The coordinated effort by Microsoft and the Justice Department seeks to expose these criminal activities and halt further illicit operations.
Microsoft emphasized that Star Blizzard’s strategy involved carefully studying their targets and posing as trusted contacts to gain access to confidential information.
This action comes as concerns grow over foreign interference in U.S. democratic processes, particularly with the upcoming presidential election in November.
Microsoft has previously warned about Russian operatives attempting to influence the election, signaling a continued threat from foreign actors.
The crackdown aims to prevent any further interference and ensure the integrity of U.S. democracy.
