intelligence operations - Constitution Protection observes increase in Russian sabotage
The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution has identified an increase in Russian sabotage activities in Europe and has evidence that Russian intelligence services have been analyzing Social Media profiles of employees from German companies with the intention of identifying individuals who may be susceptible to Russian influence or outreach efforts. According to a recent security advisory from the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, the extent of Russian sabotage activities in Europe is dependent on the development of the situation in the Ukraine conflict and the conflict between Russia and the West. In the economic security advisory, it is further stated: "The observed cases throughout Europe, as well as increased indications of possible activities in Germany, currently lead to an adjusted assessment: There is an increased risk for sabotage activities or related preparatory measures in Germany."
Cyberattacks on Websites
Furthermore, cyberattacks by pro-Russian hackers on websites of German authorities and companies are still being detected. The effects of such attacks by "hacktivist groups" have usually been time-limited, and the affected websites have only been temporarily inaccessible.
In several European countries, investigations are currently underway regarding arson or attempted arson, as well as vandalism and propaganda activities that can be traced back to Russian intelligence services. For this purpose, "low-level agents" are being recruited, mainly young, Russian-speaking people who are pro-Russian and want to earn quick money.
Arrests in Bavaria
In the vicinity of Bayreuth, two German-Russian citizens were arrested in April, who were allegedly scouting targets for possible sabotage acts in Germany on behalf of Moscow. The assessment of the Federal Prosecutor General is that the primary target was to undermine the military support that Germany is providing to Ukraine against the Russian aggression.
However, there are no indications of a possible sabotage in relation to the major fire at the Berlin facility of the Diehl Group, a defense contractor, from last May. The cause of the fire is believed to be a technical defect. At the Berlin site, no military goods are being produced, but rather automotive parts.
Recommendations for action for German companies and their employees
To close potential entry points for Russian intelligence services, the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution recommends, among other things, not making detailed statements about security software and industrial control systems in job advertisements. Potential employees should be regularly informed about potential risks.
Furthermore, the Federal Office emphasizes that sabotage is not only to be expected at installations with a direct connection to support for Ukraine, but also at objects whose strategic significance for Russia is not immediately apparent. Instead, the intention behind such sabotage acts could be to create uncertainty in politics and the public, or in specific groups and economic sectors.
- The German government is urged to increase its efforts in constitutional protection, particularly in safeguarding against Russian intelligence services' spying activities on domestic intelligence services and potential targets in Germany.
- The European Parliament is calling for a collective response to counteract Russian sabotage activities, citing the need for stricter cybersecurity measures and constitutional protection to safeguard against Russian interference in Internet communications and domestic affairs.
- In light of the increasing spying activities by Russian intelligence services and the potential for sabotage in Europe, several German companies have taken steps to enhance their internal security measures and monitor for any unusual activities or threats.
- The German government's Constitutional Protection Act is being reviewed to ensure comprehensive constitutional protection and prevention of foreign influence in domestic affairs, with a specific focus on curbing Russian sabotage activities in Germany.
- Intelligence agencies in Germany and other European countries are collaborating to formulate joint strategies to counteract Russian sabotage activities, including increasing surveillance and intelligence-gathering efforts on Russian intelligence services operating in Europe.
- In the aftermath of the increasing cyberattacks and spying activities by Russian intelligence services, Germany is also strengthening its relationships with neighboring countries, such as Ukraine and Poland, to share intelligence and bolster joint defense efforts against Russian sabotage operations in Europe.
