Russia’s flag carrier Aeroflot canceled dozens of flights Monday after two pro-Ukraine hacking groups claimed responsibility for a crippling cyberattack, disrupting travel across the country. Russian prosecutors confirmed the disruption was caused by a hack and have launched a criminal investigation. Kremlin officials described the attack as a serious digital threat amid ongoing conflict, with lawmakers warning that Russia faces warfare on multiple fronts, including cyberspace.
The hacking groups Silent Crow and Belarusian Cyberpartisans said the operation was the result of a year-long campaign that penetrated Aeroflot’s systems, destroyed thousands of servers, and gained control over employees’ computers. They threatened to release personal data of passengers and internal communications. Aeroflot canceled over 40 flights, including domestic routes and international flights to Minsk and Yerevan, and warned that specialists were working to restore normal operations. Passengers expressed frustration over cancellations and poor communication, while experts noted the attack could have lasting impacts on the airline, which remains one of the world’s largest despite sanctions on Russia.