On Thursday, Britain, Canada and the United States alleged that hackers backed by the Russian government have been trying to steal information from pharmaceutical companies and researchers finding a COVID-19 vaccine.
Britain’s National Cybersecurity Centre said they are “almost certain” that the hackers are connected to Russia’s Intelligence Services. Britain made this announcement in coordination with the US and Canadian authorities.
These three nations alleged that the hacking group – APT29, also known as Cozy Bear have been attacking academic and drug research institutions involved in the development of the Coronavirus vaccination. The announcement did not specify which institutes were targetted or whether any information had been stolen.
Dominic Raab, Britain’s foreign secretary said, “It is completely unacceptable that the Russian Intelligence Services are targeting those working to combat the coronavirus pandemic. While others pursue their selfish interests with reckless behaviour, the U.K. and its allies are getting on with the hard work of finding a vaccine and protecting global health.”
“We do not have information about who may have hacked into pharmaceutical companies and research centres. We can say one thing: Russia has nothing at all to do with these attempts,” said Dmitry Peskov, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s spokesperson.
