Microsoft did not address what country the attacks came from, but it blamed a group of hackers sometimes called Fancy Bear. Online security companies have identified Fancy Bear as a Russian group, and it is widely believed to be tied to Russian intelligence. Increasingly the attacks have also targeted groups that are not directly involved in elections but seek to steer debate or focus on specific targets. In a statement on its website, the German Marshall Fund said groups beyond candidates and their political campaign managers must be increasingly vigilant. The targeted research institutes have done work related to issues important to Russian policy and its continuing use of misinformation to influence elections.

Source: bd News24 February 20, 2019 14:15 UTC