Microsoft accused Russia of cyber attack on candidates to the US Congress

Open source

Microsoft have claimed that three candidates for the US Congress were attacked by hackers.

According to the information provided by firms, specializing in cyber security, traces of hackers lead to Russia. Tom Burt, the Vice President on security issues of the company, said that the candidates were victims of phishing (the type of fraudulent attempt to gain access to confidential user data – ed.).

A fake domain of Microsoft was likely used as part of cyber attacks, BBC reported, citing Mr Burt. The group of hackers, who used these domains, is known as Fancy Bear, but in Microsoft it is called Strontium. Cyber security experts say that the Russian authorities are standing behind the Fancy Bear.

Note that the midterm elections in the US will be held on November 6. The new composition of the House of Representatives will be elected, as well as 35 senators out of 100. In addition, 39 state and territory governors are reelected, and in some states other local elections are held.

As The Journalist reported, America prepares for an attempt by Russia to interfere in elections the elections to the US Congress.