Russian Hackers Escalate Phishing Attacks on Global Critics

Research reveals sophisticated campaigns targeting NGOs, media, and political figures with impersonation tactics.

Citizen Lab and Access Now identified two Russian-linked hacking groups, Cold River and Coldwastrel.
Targets include Russian opposition figures, former US officials, and international NGOs.
Phishing emails often impersonate known contacts, making them highly convincing.
Victims risk severe consequences, including imprisonment, if compromised.
US and EU authorities are monitoring networks to prevent further cyberattacks.