Microsoft Corp: Tech Companies at Risk of Being Compromised by Russian Hackers

Cyber security experts have warned that Russia-linked hacking incidents have gone up recently in a bid to steal sensitive information from technology companies. Many government and private energy companies including SolarWinds Corp had security compromised as Hackers broke into their system.

According to research conducted by Microsoft Corp. over 140 technology companies have been targeted by hackers in past months. Most of these companies focus on reselling or managing cloud computing services. Over 14 firms were successfully hacked using simple phishing techniques or simply guessing passwords to accounts. Microsoft corporate VP Tom Burt said on the matter, “This recent activity is another indicator that Russia is trying to gain long-term, systematic access to a variety of points in the technology supply chain.”

The hacking incident of SolarWinds which occurred last year has security experts concerned as it could further lead to more attacks on a larger scale. The Biden Administration has accused Russian Foreign intelligence service for the attack and has retaliated with financial sanctions and other expulsions.
However, even with the sanctions, the hacking group shows no sign of slowing down or being deterred. According to Microsoft, the hackers have been associated to over 600 hacking incidents in companies this year. The SolarWinds incident allowed hackers to gain access to various federal agencies and a number of private companies without being noticed for a year.

A bill was passed last week by U.S House of Representatives which requires all contactors to submit software details of their own supply chains for review to the Department of Homeland Security. Gen. Paul Nakasone, director at the National Security Agency and U.S Cyber Command said during a conference, “The SolarWinds incident was a turning point for our nation.”