A newly identified Russian hacking group was behind several cyberattacks last year targeting Dutch police, NATO, and multiple European countries, according to Dutch intelligence agencies.
The group, nicknamed Laundry Bear, is believed to be backed by the Russian state, said the Dutch General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD) and the Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD) in a joint statement to parliament.
“These cyberattacks on Dutch institutions are part of a broader international threat posed by the group,” the agencies said, following an investigation into the incidents.
Laundry Bear remained unnoticed until September 2024, when it was caught carrying out a cyber operation that breached confidential data from Dutch police officials.
The group has also been involved in cyber-espionage targeting high-tech companies in the West. These companies produce advanced technologies that Russia has had trouble acquiring due to sanctions imposed over its war in Ukraine.
According to the intelligence report, Laundry Bear has been conducting cyber operations against Western governments and institutions since at least 2024.
Investigators say the hackers sought information about how Western countries procure and produce military equipment, as well as details about arms deliveries to Ukraine.
