By Aaior K. Comfort

Microsoft and the U.S. Justice Department announced on Thursday the seizure of more than 100 websites allegedly used by Russian groups to commit computer fraud and abuse within the United States.

Between January 2023 and August 2024, Microsoft tracked a group known as “Star Blizzard,” which targeted over 30 civil society organizations, including journalists, think tanks, and non-governmental organizations, according to a joint statement.

Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco stated, “The Russian government ran this scheme to steal Americans’ sensitive information, using seemingly legitimate email accounts to trick victims into revealing their account credentials.” She emphasized the commitment to exposing Russian actors and cybercriminals, noting that they would continue to work with private sector partners to disrupt illicit activities.

Microsoft described Star Blizzard as a “persistent” threat, stating that they meticulously study their targets and pose as trusted contacts to achieve their objectives. “While we expect Star Blizzard to continuously establish new infrastructure, today’s action significantly impacts their operations at a critical time when foreign interference in U.S. democratic processes is of utmost concern,” the company added.

Microsoft has previously issued warnings about Russian operatives attempting to influence the upcoming U.S. presidential election in November.