US Offers $10M Reward for Information on Russian Hackers Targeting Messaging Apps

The US Department of State has announced a reward of up to $10 million for information on two Russian-linked hacking groups, UNC5792 and UNC4221, accused of phishing attacks on Signal and WhatsApp users. These groups are believed to be connected to Russia's FSB and military intelligence, targeting US government officials, military personnel, NATO diplomats, and journalists covering the Ukraine conflict. The hackers employ social engineering tactics, such as impersonating Signal support agents, to trick users into revealing sensitive information. Thousands of accounts have reportedly been compromised globally. The announcement follows an updated advisory from the FBI and CISA detailing new tactics used by these groups. The campaign aims to disrupt foreign cyber operations threatening US national security and critical infrastructure.

Key Points: • The US is offering a $10 million reward for information on Russian hacker groups UNC5792 and UNC4221. • These groups have targeted thousands of Signal and WhatsApp accounts of US officials and journalists. • The hackers use social engineering tactics, including impersonating support agents, to gain access to user data.