Microsoft has revealed that Iranian state hackers compromised the email accounts of several “high-profile” people, many of whom were scheduled to attend this year’s Munich Security Conference .
The hackers targeted over 100 people. According to the Microsoft Threat Intelligence Center (MSTIC), the attackers are state-sponsored Iranian hackers, known as Phosphorus, Charming Kitten, APT 35 or Magic Hound.
“The attacks managed to compromise the accounts of multiple victims, including former ambassadors and other senior experts who help shape the global agenda and foreign policies in their countries,” a Microsoft executive said.
Based on Microsoft's analysis, the attacksare part of an espionage campaigndesigned by Iranian hackers to steal information from emails and contacts.
The attacks are not linked to the US elections
In order to compromise their victims’ email accounts, Iranian hackers Phosphorus sent fake invitations (via email) “to former government officials, security policy experts, academics, and non-governmental organization leaders.” This process took place between February and October 2020.
The attackers used almost perfect English and presented themselves as organizers of the Munich Security Conference or Think 20 (T20).
"Based on current analysis, we do not believe this activity is connected to the U.S.," Microsoft said.
However, last month, the company revealed other attacks by state-sponsored hackers from Russia, China, and Iran, targeting organizations and individuals involved in this year's presidential election.
"We have already worked with the conference organizers, who have already warned and will continue to warn potential attendees, and we are disclosing what we have seen so that everyone remains vigilant for similar incidents at other conferences or events," the Microsoft executive said.
The Security Conference that the hackers used to deceive victimsbrings together hundreds of “high-profile” individuals, including prominent leaders from around the world, heads of state, ministers, and NGO leaders.
Source: Bleeoing Computer
