Microsoft has informed additional customers that Russian criminals who compromised its systems earlier this year have stolen more emails than initially reported.
Earlier reports indicated that the Russian cyberattack on Microsoft resulted in Kremlin spies obtaining source code, executive emails, and sensitive US government data. Recent revelations show that the breach was even more extensive, affecting additional customers’ data.
“We are continuing notifications to customers who corresponded with Microsoft corporate email accounts that were exfiltrated by the Midnight Blizzard threat actor, and we are providing the customers the email correspondence that was accessed by this actor,” a Microsoft spokesperson told Bloomberg. “This is increased detail for customers who have already been notified and also includes new notifications.”
In addition to the Russian attack, Microsoft was also compromised by Chinese state actors, resulting in the theft of emails and other data belonging to senior US government officials.
These incidents have led experts to consider Microsoft a threat to US national security, prompting president Brad Smith to issue a less-than-reassuring mea culpa to Congress. Despite these breaches, the US government has increased its investment in Microsoft products.
More Microsoft customers have been alerted that Russian hackers viewed and compromised emails following a security alert earlier this year, emphasizing the importance of changing passwords regularly, especially following incidents like these: https://t.co/IZ3hC2NjRI pic.twitter.com/Q1LqU0MKPZ
— 10-100 Consultancy (@10_100) July 1, 2024
Bloomberg reported that emails sent to affected Microsoft customers include a link to a secure environment where customers can review messages identified as compromised. However, this method of notification has caused confusion, with several recipients suspecting phishing attempts.
These ongoing breaches underscore the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures and transparency from tech giants like Microsoft.
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Abdul Rehman
Abdul is a tech-savvy, coffee-fueled, and creatively driven marketer who loves keeping up with the latest software updates and tech gadgets. He's also a skilled technical writer who can explain complex concepts simply for a broad audience. Abdul enjoys sharing his knowledge of the Cloud industry through user manuals, documentation, and blog posts.
