State-supported Russian hackers have compromised internet-connected surveillance cameras, including some placed along military routes in the Netherlands, to obtain information about shipments of military equipment destined for Ukraine.
The information was confirmed by the General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD) and the Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD) following a joint investigation into Russia’s cyber espionage activities.
According to Dutch authorities, the attacks targeted internet-accessible IP cameras used by both institutions and private companies.
These devices allowed the attackers to monitor logistical routes and movements of military equipment in real-time, providing strategic information about the support given to Ukraine, as reported by NL Times.
The investigation conducted by AIVD and MIVD shows that the operation is part of a broad cyber espionage campaign carried out by Russia against NATO member states in Europe and Ukraine.
The main targets were internet-connected IP cameras that could be accessed and controlled remotely. By compromising these systems, hackers managed to observe military shipments and identify the types of weapons and equipment delivered to Ukraine.
According to Dutch intelligence services, among the compromised devices were also a small number of cameras placed along military logistic routes in the Netherlands.