ABC staff targeted in sophisticated cyber attack
The ABC is among the more than two dozen Australian government critical infrastructure, universities and media organisations that researchers claim were targeted by an Israel-based company.
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) is taking precautionary measures by wiping a limited number of staff devices following a sophisticated cyber attack. Researchers from The Citizen Lab uncovered a campaign using online advertisements to distribute spyware, targeting Australian high-profile organizations. While the ABC has identified no signs of compromise from the attack, they have confirmed that a small number of devices were exposed.
The attack was part of a larger campaign dubbed "Adfection," which aimed to track and potentially hack into the networks of sensitive Australian organizations. Over two dozen Australian entities, including government agencies, critical infrastructure providers, universities, and media organizations, were reportedly targeted. The public broadcaster is among those identified, but no adverse impact has been found so far.
The attack demonstrates the risks associated with online advertising technology and raises concerns about foreign interference. Experts warn that such attacks, aimed at journalists and other vulnerable groups, are becoming increasingly common.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
