Kremlin's Top Hackers Unite: Turla and Gamaredon Team Up to Target Ukraine Devices

Kremlin Hack Groups Collaborate on Ukraine Malware Attacks Security researchers have discovered that two of the Kremlin's most active hacking units, Turla and Gamaredon, are collaborating in malware attacks targeting high-value devices in Ukraine. According to ESET, a leading cybersecurity firm, the collaboration was first spotted in recent malware attacks. "This is a significant development," said Ondrej Kubovič, ESET's Chief Information Security Officer. "We've seen Turla and Gamaredon operating independently before, but this marks the first time we've observed them working together." Turla, considered one of the world's most sophisticated advanced persistent threats (APTs), has been linked to high-profile breaches in the US Department of Defense, Germany's Foreign Office, and France's military. The group is known for its stealthy Linux malware and use of satellite-based Internet links. Gamaredon, on the other hand, conducts wider-scale operations often targeting organizations in Ukraine. While Turla keeps a low profile, Gamaredon has been more aggressive in its attacks. The collaboration between the two groups raises concerns about the Kremlin's cyber warfare capabilities. "This is a sign of the Kremlin's willingness to escalate its cyber activities," said Mark Montgomery, a cybersecurity expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). "It's a reminder that nation-state actors are increasingly using cyber attacks as a tool of statecraft." The malware attacks have been ongoing since 2019, with researchers detecting multiple instances of Turla and Gamaredon collaborating on specific targets. The attacks have compromised high-value devices in Ukraine, including those used by government agencies and critical infrastructure. As the situation unfolds, cybersecurity experts are urging organizations to remain vigilant against these types of attacks. "This collaboration highlights the need for robust cybersecurity measures, particularly in regions like Ukraine that are already vulnerable to cyber threats," said Kubovič. The Kremlin has not commented on the allegations, but the development marks a significant escalation in its cyber warfare capabilities. As the international community continues to grapple with the implications of this collaboration, one thing is clear: nation-state actors will continue to push the boundaries of cyber warfare. Background Turla and Gamaredon have been active for several years, with Turla emerging as a major player in the world of APTs. The group's sophistication and stealthy malware have made it a favorite among nation-state actors. Gamaredon, meanwhile, has been linked to multiple high-profile breaches in Ukraine. International Perspectives The collaboration between Turla and Gamaredon raises concerns about the Kremlin's cyber warfare capabilities. "This is a sign of the Kremlin's willingness to escalate its cyber activities," said Montgomery. The development also highlights the need for robust cybersecurity measures, particularly in regions like Ukraine that are already vulnerable to cyber threats. Current Status The malware attacks have been ongoing since 2019, with researchers detecting multiple instances of Turla and Gamaredon collaborating on specific targets. As the situation unfolds, cybersecurity experts are urging organizations to remain vigilant against these types of attacks. Next Developments As the international community continues to grapple with the implications of this collaboration, one thing is clear: nation-state actors will continue to push the boundaries of cyber warfare. The development marks a significant escalation in the Kremlin's cyber warfare capabilities and highlights the need for robust cybersecurity measures worldwide. *Reporting by Arstechnica.*