Security researchers at Microsoft have unveiled the existence of a newly discovered advanced persistent threat (APT) group associated with Russia’s General Staff Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU). Named ‘Cadet Blizzard,’ this threat actor has been involved in destructive cyber operations, primarily targeting organizations in Ukraine.
Microsoft’s report highlights the group’s production of the infamous WhisperGate wiper malware, which wiped the Master Boot Record (MBR) of computers in Ukraine. This marks a significant development in the Russian cyber threat landscape, as Cadet Blizzard’s activities are believed to support broader military objectives in Ukraine.
For the first time, Microsoft has established a connection between the Russian APT group and defacements of multiple Ukrainian organization websites, as well as the hack-and-leak Telegram channel called “Free Civilian”.
The company’s threat intelligence team has been monitoring Cadet Blizzard since the release of the WhisperGate wiper in January 2022, suspecting their operational presence since 2020. Cadet Blizzard’s actions align with the operational goals of GRU-led operations during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, involving focused destructive attacks, espionage, and information operations in significant regional areas.
The primary targets of Cadet Blizzard include government organizations and information technology providers in Ukraine, as well as organizations in Europe and Latin America. Microsoft’s researchers have discovered that the group compromises networks and maintains access for extended periods, often exfiltrating data before carrying out disruptive actions.
Additionally, Microsoft has uncovered evidence suggesting that at least one Russian private sector organization provided operational support to the hackers during the WhisperGate destructive attack. The APT group employs a supply chain attack technique known as “compromise one, compromise many,” repeatedly targeting IT providers and software developers that offer services to government organizations.
Microsoft’s findings shed light on the activities of Cadet Blizzard, exposing their destructive cyber operations and their connection to Russia’s GRU. This disclosure serves as a vital warning and raises awareness of the evolving Russian cyber threat landscape, particularly in the context of ongoing military conflicts.
The identification of this novel GRU-affiliated actor marks a significant milestone in understanding and combating cyber threats emanating from Russia, emphasizing the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures to protect targeted organizations and mitigate the potential impact of future attacks.
