The Daily Hacked, Again
Dec 16, 2020
David E. Sanger, national security correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the alarming details of a major cyber breach linked to Russian intelligence. He discusses how hackers infiltrated U.S. government networks through a compromised software update, evading detection for months. Sanger explains the evolving tactics of cyber attacks over the years and the dilemma of American retaliation. He also reflects on the complexities of cyber warfare and the implications for national security in an increasingly digital world.
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Early Russian Cyberattacks
- In the mid-1990s, Russian hackers targeted the Colorado School of Mines due to its connection with military bases (Moonlight Maze).
- Later, they planted USB drives in a Middle East base parking lot, which US personnel plugged into computers, downloading malware.
White House Email Hacks
- In 2014-2015, Russians hacked unclassified emails at the White House, State Department, and Joint Chiefs of Staff.
- The Obama administration didn't publicly name Russia, and they continued these attacks.
Escalating Attacks
- Russia's cyberattacks have become bolder due to the US's historically weak responses.
- This pattern suggests a failure of deterrence, encouraging further attacks.