A recent cyber attack originating from Turkish hackers has targeted government websites in France, particularly the Commission on Employment, Income, and Social Cohesion (Cerc). The hackers, operating under the name “Turkic Hackers Rulez,” seized control of the Cerc website, displaying messages in support of the Gray Wolf movement and urging action against China’s treatment of Uighurs. This incident joins a surge of cyberattacks across France, including breaches of ministries, companies, and organizations, with experts attributing the rise in attacks to factors like the upcoming 2024 Olympics in Paris.
The messages left on the compromised Cerc website indicate a broader political motive, with the hackers claiming affiliation with the Gray Wolf movement, a Turkish ultranationalist organization known for its aggressive stance against Turkey’s ethnic minorities. The hackers demand action from Turkish citizens to boycott China in response to the Uighur genocide, highlighting geopolitical tensions and nationalist sentiments driving cyber attacks. This incident underscores the growing threat of cyber warfare and the need for robust cybersecurity measures, especially as major events like the 2024 Olympics approach.
Furthermore, the attack on French government websites adds to a string of cyber assaults that have targeted various sectors in France, including ministries, companies, and healthcare providers. The breaches have exposed sensitive data of millions of French citizens, emphasizing the severity of the cybersecurity threat faced by the country. With the Paris Olympics on the horizon, cybersecurity experts anticipate a surge in cyberattacks, highlighting the need for proactive measures to safeguard critical infrastructure and sensitive information from malicious actors.