Anonymous declares war against Russia: starting a cyber war

The famous collective of cyberactivists, Anonymous, has entered the geopolitical conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Just days after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s declaration of war and subsequent invasion of Ukraine, Anonymous has declared war against Putin’s government. The announcement came through their social media channels stating: “The Anonymous collective is officially in cyber war against the Russian government.”

Anonymous steps up hacking effort against the Kremlin

Shortly before Anonymous announced their intentions to scale up operations to a cyber-war, various hackers within the collective took down the website for RT, a Russian state media channel. Other Kremlin related sites have also been attacked, including the Ministry of Defense.

In the coming days, Anonymous plans to continue the operations and some believe Russia could see attempts to steal sensitive information, an act that has been applauded by many followers on social media.

In addition to conducting their own attacks, it seems that Anonymous has also been leaking Russian military intelligence that they have collected or promoting what is being reported in the media. On 24 February, the collective tweeted that the Kremlin plans to invade Kyiv within the next ninety-six hours.

What other countries or individuals have been targeted by Anonymous?

This is not the first time that Anonymous has decided to interfere with an international conflict. In past years, the collective has launched attacks against the Ku Klux Klan and Islamic extremist groups. They have also exposed various high profile celebrities, leaders, and business owners who were connected to Jeffry Epstein and the sexual trafficking of minors.

 Reports show Russia has also been engaging in cyber warfare

Shortly before the full scale invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin has perpetrated various cyber attacks against Ukrainian government website. After the Russian military began firing ballistic missiles at various strategic military targets in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s government reported additional cyber attacks, which had long been suggested would form part of the Kremlin’s plan. During these attacks some private entities including banks were also targeted.