European Union Agency for Cybersecurity: Disruptive Cyberattacks Doubled in 2024, Most Linked to Russian-Backed Groups
Disruptive cyberattacks have surged in the European Union, with many linked to Russian-backed groups, according to the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA). Juhan Lepassaar, head of ENISA, highlighted in an interview with The Associated Press that the frequency of politically motivated attacks has increased since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022.
Lepassaar pointed out that hacktivist attacks aimed at causing disruption to European infrastructure have doubled from the last quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. These attacks have particularly targeted election-related services as citizens of the EU’s 27 member states prepare to vote for European Parliament lawmakers between June 6-9, which will also impact the European Commission's formation.
Belgian officials recently conducted searches at the residence and office of a European Parliament employee over suspected Russian interference, underscoring the heightened security concerns. Upcoming elections in the United States, Britain, and other countries have also raised awareness about the threat of disruption campaigns sponsored by hostile entities.
Over the past seven months, ENISA has been leading exercises and holding consultations to strengthen the resilience of EU election-related agencies. Their 2023 annual report highlighted a rise in ransomware attacks and incidents targeting public institutions. Lepassaar noted that many attack methods are first tested in Ukraine before being deployed in EU countries, describing it as a digital extension of Russia’s physical aggression in Ukraine.
Experts warn that artificial intelligence (AI) tools are increasingly being used to spread misinformation and manipulate information at a rapid pace, including through hyperrealistic deepfakes. Member states' cybersecurity agencies have also identified AI-enabled disinformation as a significant threat. This sentiment is echoed by U.S. Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, who recently cautioned that technological advancements will enable more effective disinformation campaigns by various groups.
To counter emerging digital threats, U.S. and European experts are assisting security agencies, with ENISA pinpointing critical sectors like food production, satellite management, and self-driving vehicles as areas needing attention. Lepassaar emphasized that understanding digital security must become as ingrained in society as traffic safety, requiring a similar level of awareness and vigilance in the digital realm.
