Fake nuclear, chemical threat alerts flash as Russia, Ukraine report cyberattacks on emergency apps

Russian and Ukrainian authorities have both reported cyberattacks targeting their emergency alert applications, with hackers sending false warnings of nuclear, chemical and radiation threats to mobile phone users. Ukraine's air raid alert system briefly displayed warnings of a possible nuclear threat and urban combat, while Russia's emergency ministry claimed its app was targeted by a "massive cyberattack" that allowed attackers to disseminate false information.

Ukraine first reported its air raid alert system had been hacked, broadcasting alarms of alleged chemical and radiation threats via mobile phones and loudspeakers in Kyiv. The app temporarily displayed nuclear and chemical alerts and the threat of street combat in Kyiv and other areas. An erroneous message claimed Russia's hypersonic Oreshnik missile had been deployed.

Ukraine's Air Force stated the incident likely involved external interference and reassured residents there was no radiation threat. Ukraine's Ministry for Digital Transformation later confirmed the nationwide alert system was functioning normally. In Russia, the mobile app of the emergency ministry was hit by a massive cyberattack that spread false information to the public, according to Reuters.

The ministry stated its public alert system is "operating as normal" and that citizens receive alerts through multiple channels, including sirens and loudspeakers. Ukraine's Centre for Strategic Communications blamed Russia for the cyberattack and urged residents to disregard any unusual messages received through the application.