Russian intelligence agencies are collecting data on Moldovan citizens for hybrid warfare, according to SIB
Moldova’s Information and Security Service (SIB) has reported a large-scale collection of personal data on the country’s citizens by Russian intelligence agencies.
According to the agency, this data could be used for fraud, financial crimes, and elements of hybrid warfare.
The SIB’s statement notes that Russian intelligence agencies have organized a coordinated effort to collect personal information on Moldovan citizens.
According to the agency, the information reaches cybercriminals through several channels:
- through private databases that are illegally sold on the dark web;
- through unauthorized access to private servers;
- through the database of the organized criminal group “Shor,” which contains information on approximately 145,000 citizens who provided their personal data.
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) reported that the databases in question contain first names, last names, email addresses, phone numbers, home addresses, and even copies of identity documents.
According to the security service’s assessment, the obtained data is being passed on to transnational criminal groups for use in various fraudulent schemes, including the theft of funds from bank cards and other financial schemes.
“We warn that these actions are not isolated incidents but are part of a hybrid war aimed at undermining national stability. The goal of these coordinated attacks is to create a sense of insecurity and mistrust in society,” the SIB emphasized.
In this regard, citizens were urged to be especially cautious and not to disclose personal information to unknown individuals or organizations offering quick profits or investment opportunities.
The agency also recommends:
- do not disclose passwords or security codes over the phone;
- carefully verify requests for money transfers;
- do not grant third parties access to your bank accounts or online banking services;
- in case of suspicious situations, contact law enforcement or call 112.
The SIB has noted a sharp increase in the number of fraud cases. On June 15 alone, the police recorded 22 cases of telephone fraud, 13 of which resulted in citizens suffering losses totaling more than 1 million lei.
Moldovan intelligence agencies believe that such operations are part of a broader campaign of destabilization and information influence aimed at undermining citizens’ trust in state institutions.
This was reported by NOI MD.
Earlier, Montenegro’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Russian Ambassador Alexander Lukashik over his public statements, which were described as “open and unacceptable interference” in the country’s internal affairs.
