Paris Olympics 2024: Cyber threats loom over the global spectacle
The Olympic Games in Paris are a significant event for all sports enthusiasts. However, one must not overlook IT security, as the event also attracts cybercriminals.
The Olympic Games captivate millions of viewers globally. Many of them sit in front of their televisions to watch the athletes' competitions live. The opening ceremony, which will take place on 26 July 2024, will attract about a billion viewers. This immense interest in the event leads to an increase in the intensity of cybercriminal attacks.
Tim West, director of threat intelligence at WithSecure, noted that 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 undermine the country's global position. In the case of France, internal political tensions and difficult relations with countries like Russia further increase the risk.
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 organisation 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 and 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. Many groups' motivations and actions may align with Russia's strategic political goals. In recent years, numerous pro-Russian hacktivist groups have been involved in attacks aiming to support Russia's interests and destabilise 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 cyber warfare activities.
Hacktivists' goals vary. Some aim to destabilise a country's internal situation by attacking its energy and telecommunications infrastructure. Other groups seek international publicity and amplify their message, for example, by interrupting television broadcasts to air their video content.
A serious threat to fans
Cybercriminals may exploit security vulnerabilities to take control of organisers' official websites or critical infrastructure. A similar situation occurred during the London Summer Olympics 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. With such a large number of interested parties, scammers will have an easier time finding fans who are caught up in the excitement of the sports and fall for fake offers of cheap tickets or accommodations.
Experts offer reassurance
Ensuring cybersecurity during the Olympics is a significant challenge for the organisers. 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 adequate security.
