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Microsoft Alleges Russian State-Sponsored Actors Abused ISPs for Diplomatic Espionage
London – July 31, 2025 – Microsoft has reported that Russian state-sponsored threat actors have allegedly engaged in a sophisticated campaign to abuse Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in Moscow, with the aim of compromising and spying on diplomats. The findings, detailed in a recent advisory, suggest a significant escalation in the methods employed by these actors to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information.
According to Microsoft’s analysis, the campaign targeted specific ISPs operating within the Russian capital. The modus operandi reportedly involved exploiting vulnerabilities or leveraging compromised infrastructure within these service providers. This approach, Microsoft explains, would allow the attackers to intercept or gain access to the internet traffic of their intended targets without their direct knowledge or consent.
The primary objective of this alleged activity appears to have been the surveillance of diplomats. By compromising the network infrastructure of ISPs, the threat actors could potentially monitor communications, access sensitive data, and gather intelligence from foreign missions and their personnel operating in Moscow. This type of operation is often associated with state-sponsored espionage efforts, aiming to gain strategic advantages or insights into foreign policy and diplomatic initiatives.
Microsoft has identified the actors behind this campaign as being associated with the Russian government. While specific group designations were not immediately provided in the public advisory, the attribution to state-sponsored entities underscores the seriousness and potential geopolitical implications of these findings.
The report highlights the evolving tactics and techniques used by nation-state threat actors, demonstrating a continued focus on leveraging the digital supply chain and critical infrastructure to achieve their objectives. The abuse of ISPs, which are essential conduits for internet access, presents a particularly concerning avenue for surveillance, as it can provide a broad and persistent vantage point into network activities.
In response to these allegations, cybersecurity experts are emphasizing the importance of robust network security measures and diligent oversight of critical infrastructure providers. Diplomatic missions and organizations operating in sensitive geopolitical environments are being advised to review and strengthen their own cybersecurity protocols, particularly concerning their reliance on local internet service providers.
The full details of Microsoft’s findings are expected to be made available to relevant parties to assist in understanding and mitigating the risks associated with such sophisticated espionage operations. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent and adaptive nature of cyber threats, particularly those originating from state-sponsored actors.
Kremlin goons caught abusing ISPs to spy on Moscow-based diplomats, Microsoft says
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