The US government confirms the cyber attack

WASHINGTON – The United States government confirmed Sunday that its computer networks had been affected by a cyber attack, such as The Washington Post reported that at least two departments had been attacked by Russian state hackers.

“We have been working closely with our partner agencies regarding recently discovered activity on government networks,” a spokesman for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency told AFP.

“CISA is providing technical assistance to affected entities as they work to identify and mitigate any potential compromises.”

The Post said the attacks were related to an attack last week on cybersecurity firm FireEye, which said its own defenses were breached by sophisticated attackers who stole tools used to test customers’ computer systems.

FireEye said it suspected the attack was sponsored by the state.

US media reports also said that the FBI was investigating a group working for the Russian foreign intelligence service, SVR, and that violations had been going on for months.

The same group reportedly also hacked US government agencies during the Obama administration.

“The United States government is aware of these reports and we are taking all necessary steps to identify and remedy any potential problems related to this situation,” said National Security Council spokesman John Ullyot.

The Russian embassy in the United States responded later Sunday to what it said were “unfounded” media claims, denying any role in the alleged attacks.

“Malicious activities in the information space contradicts the principles of Russian foreign policy, national interests and our understanding of interstate relations,” the embassy said in a statement on its official Facebook page.

“Russia does not conduct offensive operations in the cyber domain.”

Download the EWN app on your iOS or Android device.