German Research Institute ZOiS Reports Cyberattack

The Center for Eastern European and International Studies (ZOiS) in Germany has reported being the target of a cyberattack, which may have occurred several weeks ago. According to a statement obtained by Der Spiegel, the institute's file servers were accessed by attackers, potentially exposing personal data of employees, cooperation partners, and service providers.

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We have decided to share the news of the incident and its possible consequences, the extent of which we will never be able to determine with certainty – as with other cyberattacks –

The extent of any data theft remains uncertain, and the perpetrators have not yet been identified. However, the attackers communicated with ZOiS, citing the institute's alleged "anti-Russian content" as a reason for the attack. ZOiS is a respected German research institution focusing on Eastern Europe, frequently publishing analyses on Russia's war against Ukraine and developments within Russia itself. The institute also collaborates with individuals holding Russian citizenship.

Gwendolyn Sasse, the Scientific Director of ZOiS, expressed concern that cooperation with the institute could pose risks for Russian citizens, potentially leading to punishment from the Russian state. This concern stems from ZOiS being labeled an "undesirable organization" in Russia since 2023, a designation the Kremlin uses to discredit critics. Sasse stated, "We have decided to share the news of the incident and its possible consequences, the extent of which we will never be able to determine with certainty – as with other cyberattacks –" adding that the exact method of the breach, whether through phishing or another means, is still unclear.

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It could have been via phishing or another way; nothing has been determined yet.

The institute has warned potential victims via email, advising them to be cautious with incoming emails and links, and to regularly monitor their bank accounts. ZOiS has reported the incident to the relevant security authorities and is working with specialized service providers to investigate the attack. As an institute funded by public money, ZOiS views the attack as "also an attack on the German state," Sasse concluded.

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also an attack on the German state