A campaign targeting high-profile users of the messaging app Signal has been identified by Dutch intelligence, which includes the Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD) and General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD). This extensive operation, allegedly backed by Russian interests, aims to deceive users into revealing sensitive information through phishing tactics.
Signal has assured users that its systems remain secure, despite reports of individual accounts being compromised. The company emphasized the importance of safeguarding account details, advising users against sharing their PIN codes and verification codes sent via SMS.
Officials and military personnel in the Netherlands are among those targeted in this global campaign, which also affects users of WhatsApp. Both messaging platforms have warned their users to be vigilant against such scams, which often involve impersonation of customer support personnel.
According to AIVD director-general Simone Smit, the overall security of Signal and WhatsApp has not been breached, but individual users' accounts are at risk due to sophisticated phishing techniques used by the attackers.