North Korea accused of attempting to hack Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs despite strengthening ties

The German cybersecurity company, Deutsche Cyber-Sicherheitsorganisation (DCSO), has reportedly discovered malicious software hidden in an installer intended for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as reported by Radio Free Asia. The virus, identified as KONNI, has been a part of Pyongyang's cyber arsenal since 2014.

DCSO disclosed that the virus was embedded within a software installer named "Statistika KZU," which was explicitly designed for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The intention behind the making of this program was solely for internal use, to enhance the security of document transmission.

Malware software of a backdoor type provides a workaround for encryption and authentication mechanisms. Consequently, hackers can obtain unauthorized access without the administrator's consent, enabling them to browse, modify, or eliminate internal data.

DCSO's revelation coincides with the official strengthening of ties between Pyongyang and Moscow. "Despite the evolving strategic relations, North Korea's cyber espionage, aimed at Russian strategic objectives in sensitive sectors such as government or defense, appears to be ongoing," stated the German company.

Earlier this week, the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, presented Kim Jong Un with a gift from a Russian car brand, Aurus, which is esteemed as the equivalent of a Rolls-Royce. This gesture is perceived as an indication of the bond between the two leaders.

Source: Radio Free Asia