Denmark Blames Russian Hacking Groups for Cyberattacks on Water Facility and Elections

On December 18, 2024, Denmark's Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen presented alarming claims regarding cyberattacks linked to Russian hacker groups. According to Poulsen, the Danish government is holding these groups accountable for two significant incidents: a disruption at a water treatment plant and a cyberattack on local elections. In an official statement, the minister disclosed that the attack on the water plant resulted in damaged water pipes and impacted the household water supply. The hacking group identified as ZPentest was implicated in this breach. Furthermore, on the eve of Denmark's municipal and regional elections in November 2024, the websites of several political parties, municipalities, public institutions, and even a defense company were disabled during an assault attributed to another hacker group known as NoName057. Poulsen emphasized the serious nature of these events and confirmed that the Danish government plans to summon the Russian ambassador for discussions. He remarked on the confidence placed by the Danish authorities regarding the involvement of pro-Russian groups closely linked to the Russian state, as stated by Thomas Ahrenkiel, head of Denmark's military intelligence agency. Ahrenkiel noted the government's commitment to responding to what they perceive as an unacceptable pattern of behavior by Russia, stating, 'We have taken numerous initiatives and we will take more.' The situation is grave, emphasized Minister for Resilience and Preparedness, Torsten Schack Pedersen. He underscored the seriousness of attributing these attacks directly to the Russian state, as opposed to mere sympathizers, highlighting that Denmark is currently navigating a state of hybrid warfare rather than a clear-cut state of conflict or peace. In response to the threats posed by cyber warfare, the Danish government is laying the groundwork to establish a new cybersurveillance network and online operations center to safeguard against future attacks. The recent incidents serve as a stark reminder of the complexities of modern warfare and the ongoing tensions between Russia and NATO-aligned nations, with Denmark taking a proactive stance in securing its cyber environment. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2