Focus on the BIG picture.
Thursday, Feb 19, 2026
Outside the box.
FBI disrupts hacking network 'linked to Russian intelligence services'
US officials have disrupted a Russian intelligence-linked hacking network that used default passwords to infiltrate over a thousand internet routers globally.
Operatives from Russia's GRU, particularly from their covert hacking unit known as Fancy Bear or Unit 26165, initiated "harvesting campaigns" to gather intelligence.
The US Justice Department and the FBI intervened, covertly neutralizing the threat by modifying the compromised routers. Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco noted this was the second recent counteraction against state-backed cyberattacks.
The hackers exploited weak default passwords to install malware and form a Botnet for espionage. The FBI's "Operation Dying Ember" saw the Botnet dismantled, stolen data erased, and routers' firewall settings altered to prevent future breaches.
Special agent Jodi Cohen emphasized the operation's international scope and the determination to protect US technology and networks.
Victims have been advised to reset their hardware, update firmware, change passwords, and set secure firewall rules to ensure safety.
The US Justice Department and the FBI intervened, covertly neutralizing the threat by modifying the compromised routers. Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco noted this was the second recent counteraction against state-backed cyberattacks.
The hackers exploited weak default passwords to install malware and form a Botnet for espionage. The FBI's "Operation Dying Ember" saw the Botnet dismantled, stolen data erased, and routers' firewall settings altered to prevent future breaches.
Special agent Jodi Cohen emphasized the operation's international scope and the determination to protect US technology and networks.
Victims have been advised to reset their hardware, update firmware, change passwords, and set secure firewall rules to ensure safety.
