Russian Hackers Breach Norwegian Dam: Cyberattack Exposes Critical Infrastructure Risks
Norwegian intelligence has confirmed that Russian hackers took control of a hydropower dam in Bremanger this April, opening a floodgate and releasing 500 litres of water per second for four hours before detection. The attack, attributed directly to Moscow by the Norwegian Police Security Service (PST), marks the first public acknowledgment linking the incident to pro-Russian cyber actors. While the dam was far below flood capacity and no damage occurred, the head of PST, Beate Gangås, said the operation aimed to instill fear and chaos among the population, describing Russia as an increasingly dangerous neighbour.
The cyberattack, allegedly carried out by a coalition of pro-Russian cybercriminals, was accompanied by a propaganda video posted on Telegram. Norwegian authorities warn that the event highlights the vulnerability of critical infrastructure—particularly energy facilities—to hostile cyber operations. With Norway generating most of its electricity from hydropower and sharing a direct border with Russia, the incident underscores the broader geopolitical stakes and the growing threat of state-sponsored sabotage in Europe’s energy sector.
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