Russian-linked cyber hackers have targeted high-value individuals through the encrypted messaging app Signal, with thousands of accounts compromised globally, according to FBI Director Kash Patel. The warning highlights a widespread campaign aimed at sensitive targets, including government officials and journalists.

Who is being targeted

In a post on X, Patel said the campaign focuses on individuals with access to critical information. "The campaign targets individuals of high intelligence value, including current and former US government officials, military personnel, political figures, and journalists," he stated. "Globally, this effort has resulted in unauthorized access to thousands of individual accounts."

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How the attack works

Authorities say the attackers used deceptive tactics to gain access. Messages were sent "masquerading as automated (commercial messaging app) support accounts" that "deceive targets into taking an action, such as clicking a link or providing verification codes or account PINs".

Once access was granted, hackers were able to view messages, access contact lists and even send messages from compromised accounts. This allowed them to launch further phishing attempts using trusted identities.

A joint public service announcement by the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) warned that such actions could result in a "full account takeover" if users comply with these requests.

Officials noted that while Signal has been a key target, similar methods could be used against other messaging platforms. A warning cited in reports stated that "actors specifically target Signal accounts but can apply similar methods against other" commercial messaging apps, reported The Times of India.

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Previous concerns raised

Security agencies have flagged risks associated with the platform in the past. The National Security Agency had earlier cautioned about vulnerabilities, particularly from Russian hacking groups known to target communication apps.

The issue has drawn attention given that senior US officials, including Vice President JD Vance and War Secretary Pete Hegseth, have previously used Signal for sensitive discussions, underscoring the potential risks linked to such breaches.