Cyber threats loom as Paris readies for 2024 Olympics
The Olympic Games in Paris are an important event for all sports fans. However, one must not forget about IT security, as the event also attracts cybercriminals.
The Olympic Games draw the attention of millions of viewers around the world. Many watch the athletes' competitions live on television. The opening ceremony, set for July 26, 2024, will likely attract about a billion viewers. This immense interest in the event leads to increased cybercriminal activity.
– The Olympic Games are not just a major sporting event; they also influence the general perception of the host country on the international stage. Any incident that questions the level of preparedness for the competition can be used to undermine the global position of the host country. In France, internal political tensions and difficult relations with countries like Russia further increase the risk – notes Tim West, Director of Threat Intelligence at WithSecure.
The Russians have already begun their attacks
Russian attempts to disrupt the Games are nothing new. In June, Microsoft described a Russian disinformation campaign targeting the organization of the Games, which used a deepfake featuring Tom Cruise. WithSecure experts point to a high probability of cyberattacks commissioned by Russian authorities. The main goal of these attacks is to compromise France and the International Olympic Committee, as well as demonstrate Russia's strength on the international stage.
The threat from hacktivists
Geopolitical turmoil surrounding the Games and their international publicity will attract the attention of hacktivists, groups of cybercriminals acting out of ideological rather than financial motivations. They have been particularly active online since the outbreak of armed conflicts in Ukraine and Israel.
Hacktivists will undoubtedly seek to exploit the Olympics to promote their social and political goals. There are many groups whose motivations and actions may align with Russia's strategic political goals. In recent years, numerous pro-Russian hacktivist groups have been involved in attacks to support Russia's interests and destabilize opponents. In April 2024, Mandiant reported on three groups that attacked strategic networks and internet services vital to Ukraine. There is a real risk that Russia will want to expand its influence on other criminal groups to enhance its activities in cyber warfare – emphasizes Tim West.
Hacktivists' goals vary. Some aim to destabilize a country's internal situation by attacking its energy and telecommunications infrastructure. Other groups seek international publicity and to amplify their message, for example, by interrupting television broadcasts to air their own video content.
A serious threat to fans
Cybercriminals may exploit security vulnerabilities to take control of organizers' official websites or critical infrastructure. A similar situation occurred during the London Summer Olympics in 2012 when hackers tried to cut off the Olympic Stadium's power supply.
Olympic fans may also become targets for cybercriminals. It is estimated that 15 million people will come to Paris for the Olympics, and around 13 million tickets will be sold. Among such a large number of interested parties, scammers will have an easier time finding fans who, caught up in the excitement of the sports, fall for fake offers of cheap tickets or accommodations.
Experts offer reassurance
Ensuring cybersecurity during the Olympics is a significant challenge for the organizers. As WithSecure experts point out, lessons from previous Games have been learned, and specialists responsible for protection are equipped with the necessary tools and measures to counteract attacks, ensuring an adequate level of security.
