Novel Russian Threat Group Cadet Blizzard Is Behind Recent Wave of Attacks, Microsoft

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Source: Microsoft

Microsoft researchers have determined that the unit behind the first cyberattack in the run-up to the Ukraine war, which it calls Cadet Blizzard, is an active and distinct group within the Russian Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU) responsible for website defacements, destructive attacks, cyber espionage, and hack-and-leak operations.

Microsoft said the group is behind a wave of attacks since February 2023 targeting Ukraine and NATO member states providing military assistance to Ukraine. The group is distinct from other GRU operations, such as Sandworm, believed to be responsible for multiple attacks on Ukraine’s electric grid in recent years.

“The emergence of a novel GRU affiliated actor, particularly one which has conducted destructive cyber operations likely supporting broader military objectives in Ukraine, is a notable d…