Pro-Ukraine hackers claim cyber-attack on Aeroflot

Pro-Ukraine hackers have claimed responsibility for a major cyber-attack on Russia's Aeroflot.

Pro-Ukraine hackers disrupt Aeroflot operations in significant cyber-attack

A pro-Ukraine hacker group known as Silent Crow has asserted that it conducted a cyber-attack on Aeroflot, Russia's national airline. This incident led to significant disruptions, resulting in the cancellation of over 40 flights, primarily affecting domestic routes but also impacting services to Belarus and Armenia. The Kremlin expressed concern over the incident, deeming the reports "worrying". The hackers also threatened to release personal data of all passengers who have used Aeroflot. Despite these claims, verification of the attack's impact remains uncertain. The Russian prosecutor's office confirmed a failure in Aeroflot's information systems due to a hacker attack, prompting a criminal investigation while passengers were rerouted to alternative airlines.

The cyber-attack on Aeroflot reflects the intensifying conflict between Ukrainian and Russian actors not just on the battlefield, but also in the digital arena. While hacking groups often amplify their assertions, the tangible impact on Aeroflot demonstrates a rare moment where cyber warfare affects civilian air travel. Groups like Silent Crow and Belarus's Cyber Partisans are capitalizing on this tension, exploiting digital vulnerabilities to draw attention to their cause. The statement from Russian officials highlights a broader concern regarding relentless cyber threats amidst escalating military conflicts. As technological avenues for conflict continue to evolve, the potential for further disruptions remains significant.

Highlights

The ongoing cyber conflict illustrates the high stakes involved in modern warfare dynamics.