Russian state hackers attempt to compromise Biden campaign: Report

Microsoft Corp has issued an immediate alert to US Democratic Presidential candidate Joe Biden campaign advisory firms, saying, it has been targeted by suspected Russian state-backed hackers. Washington-based firm SKDKnickerbocker and its staff designated with handling Joe Biden’s and or prominent Democrats’ election strategies and communications have detected attempts to compromise security of systems by what it describes ‘Russia based hackers’, at least three sources with local news outlets revealed. However, a person familiar with SKDK’s response to threats told local reports on condition of anymity that firms’ networks were so well-defended that re has been breach. 

hackers failed to gain access into databases, US media reported, citing person’s confidential statement. SKDK Vice-Chair Hilary Rosen and Democrat Joe Biden, however, declined to comment. report emerged shortly after US intelligence ncies had warned of alleged foreign government collusion and election intervention via “covert measures”. A statement issued by director of US counterintelligence stated that foreign entities were employing "overt influence practices" to manipulate US citizen votes and achieve se outcomes. Director of National Counterintelligence and Security Center, William Evanina, had warned in intelligence report that while Russia undermines Democratic minee Joe Biden’s candidacy, China and Iran colluded for President Donald Trump to lose  elections. 

Read: Trump's Top Adviser Sought To Censor Intelligence On Russian Interference: Whistleblower

Read: Pompeo Says 'substantial Chance' Of Russian Officials Behind Navalny's Poisoning

"Campaigns should recognize that campaign staff are attractive targets for foreign intelligence services," Senate Intelligence Committee report said. 

" threat is ongoing," Republican Sen. Richard B said in a statement.

Attempts intercepted by Microsoft

A separate investigation held by former special counsel Robert Mueller and Senate intelligence committee said in a report that Russian government carried out collusion and interference in 2016 Presidential elections. Mueller had issued repeated warnings into perceived threats about Russia’s manipulation in voting, which compromised US’ voting democracy. It, although, remains unestablished wher cyber intruders aimed to steal confidential information of SKDK staff or intended to compromise Biden’s campaign. A White House communications director and SKDK managing director, Anita Dunn is reportedly senior advisor to Biden campaign who has held position during Obama presidency. attempts to intrude into network systems were intercepted by Microsoft, which traced it to Russian government in a thorough investigation. 

Read: Russia Says ‘disinformation’ Over Navalny’s Poisoning Being Used For New Sanctions

Read: UN Rights Chief Urges "independent" Russian Probe Into Navalny Poisoning

(Im Credit: AP)