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A Russian-based surveillance technology firm, Protei, suffered a cyberattack resulting in data theft and website defacement. The breach exposed sensitive files, including years-old emails, and compromised its servers. The incident highlights vulnerabilities in companies providing internet filtering and surveillance tools. The hacker’s message referenced Protei’s role in Russian-developed SORM systems, which enable government surveillance. Zack Whittaker of TechCrunch reported the breach, emphasizing its implications for digital privacy and state monitoring capabilities.

Key facts

  • Protei, a company offering surveillance and censorship tools, was hacked with data stolen from its servers.
  • The breach revealed 182 gigabytes of files, including emails dating back years, and defaced its website.
  • Hackers shared Protei’s data with DDoSecrets, a nonprofit focused on transparency in surveillance technologies.
  • The attack linked to SORM systems, which allow governments to monitor internet traffic and block specific content.
  • Protei’s services are used in countries like Russia, Kazakhstan, and Mexico for lawful intercept operations.
See article on TechCrunch