Russia Hacks Norwegian Dam, Releasing 1,900,000 Gallons of Water in Cyber Attack

The head of Norway's Police Security Service (PST), Beate Gangås, has accused Russia of being behind a sophisticated cyberattack on a dam in the western part of the country. The attack, which was discovered just hours after it occurred, remotely opened the floodgates of the Bremanger Dam, releasing a staggering 1,900,000 gallons of water into the river.

The incident highlights the escalating threat of Russia-backed cyber actors, who are increasingly using advanced tactics to cause fear and chaos. According to Gangås, the aim of this type of operation is "to influence and to cause fear and chaos among the general population." The PST chief warned that Norway's neighboring country has become more dangerous in recent months, with a growing trend of cyberattacks on Western targets.

Norway relies heavily on hydropower generation facilities for electricity, but this particular dam was primarily used for fish farming. Fortunately, there were no injuries or damage reported as a result of the gushing dam. However, the incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with relying on critical infrastructure.

The source report notes that the water level in the river fed by the dam was "a long way below flood capacity" at the time of the hack. Had the weather circumstances been different, the nearby town of Svelgen could have been in peril. The PST chief emphasized that the attack was not just a technical issue, but also a matter of national security.

While Russia has denied any involvement in the attack, there is already strong evidence pointing to Moscow as the perpetrator. The hacking group behind the dam attack comprised individuals linked to several other cyberattacks on Western targets. Additionally, the alleged perpetrators published a three-minute video on social media on the day of the attack, which featured a pro-Russian cybercriminal group watermark.

The Russian embassy in Oslo has characterized Gangås's statements as unfounded, claiming that the PST is "unsuccessfully trying to substantiate the mythical threat of Russian sabotage against Norwegian infrastructure this year." However, this denial comes as no surprise, given Russia's history of threatening those who support Ukraine and issuing explicit nuclear warnings.

The incident highlights the growing tensions between Norway and Russia, with both countries having significant land borders with Moscow. Finland and Sweden have already faced similar threats, with specific warnings given to them against joining NATO. However, both countries have since joined the alliance, leaving Russia's sabre-rattling to fall on deaf ears.

A Cyberattack of Epic Proportions

The attack on the Bremanger Dam was a masterclass in cyber warfare, with the hackers releasing 500 liters (132 gallons) of water per second. The sustained release lasted for around four hours before it was noticed and stopped. This level of sophistication is consistent with the tactics employed by Russia-backed cyber actors, who have been linked to several other high-profile attacks on Western targets.

The incident serves as a reminder that cyberattacks can have devastating consequences, even in seemingly secure systems. The PST chief warned that Norway's infrastructure is not immune to such attacks, and that the country must remain vigilant in the face of emerging threats.

A Growing Threat from Russia

Russia's actions in recent months have been marked by a growing trend of cyber aggression against Western targets. The attack on the Bremanger Dam is just the latest example of this escalating threat, which appears to be aimed at causing fear and chaos among the general population.

The PST chief emphasized that Norway must take steps to strengthen its cybersecurity defenses in light of these threats. This includes increasing investment in cyber security measures, as well as improving cooperation between law enforcement agencies and private sector companies.

A Call to Action

The attack on the Bremanger Dam serves as a wake-up call for Norway and other Western countries to take the threat from Russia more seriously. The PST chief's warning that "our Russian neighbor has become more dangerous" should be taken with caution, given Russia's history of using cyber warfare as a tool of statecraft.

In light of this incident, it is essential that we re-examine our approach to cybersecurity and take steps to strengthen our defenses. This includes investing in cutting-edge technology, improving cooperation between law enforcement agencies and private sector companies, and increasing awareness among the general public about the risks associated with cyber threats.