Signal, as an encrypted messaging app and protocol, remains relatively secure. But Signal's growing popularity as a tool to circumvent surveillance has led agents affiliated with Russia to try to manipulate the app's users into surreptitiously linking their devices, according to Google's Threat Intelligence Group.
While Russia's continued invasion of Ukraine is likely driving the c...
Signal Messaging App Targeted by Russia
Russia's Exploits to Circumvent Encryption
Signal, the popular encrypted messaging service, has become a target of Russian agents seeking to manipulate users and disable its encryption features. This effort is fueled by Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which has heightened the need for secure communication channels.Social Engineering Tactics Employed
Google's Threat Intelligence Group has identified that Russia is utilizing social engineering techniques to gain access to Signal accounts. These tactics do not rely on vulnerabilities in Signal's platform, but rather exploit human vulnerabilities. Similar phishing campaigns have been seen targeting Microsoft 365 accounts.Device Linking Phishing
One specific method used by Russia is "device code flow" OAuth phishing, which involves tricking users into scanning fraudulent QR codes. Once scanned, these codes unwittingly link a user's device to a threat actor's account, allowing them to access messages and contacts.Signal's Countermeasures
Signal has implemented safeguards in its latest versions to mitigate these phishing attacks. Users are advised to ensure they are running the most up-to-date application. By doing so, they can benefit from features that detect and prevent unauthorized device linking.Outlook and Implications
Google's Threat Intelligence blog anticipates that these tactics will become more prevalent and spread to other regions and threat actors. This highlights the importance of remaining vigilant against social engineering attempts that target secure platforms.
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