Constitutional Protection points to Russian sabotage attempts
The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution sees 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. "The goal was to identify persons who were susceptible to Russian influence or courting efforts", it says in a current security notice 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 security notice for the economy it is further stated: "The observed cases throughout Europe and increased indications of possible activities in Germany currently lead to an adjusted assessment: There is an increased risk in relation to sabotage activities or preparatory measures in Germany."
Simultaneously, cyber attacks by pro-Russian hackers on websites of German authorities and companies are still being detected. So far, the effects of such attacks by "hacktivist groups" have been mostly time-limited and the affected websites have only been temporarily inaccessible.
In several European countries, investigations are currently being conducted into arson and 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 inclined and wanted to earn quick money.
Despite these attempts at sabotage by Russian hacktivist groups, constitutional protection in Germany ensures that freedom of speech and expression remain key principles. However, the constitutional court has expressed concern over the potential exploitation of these freedoms for propaganda purposes, which could constitute a threat to the democratic order.
