Attacks Microsoft has observed against campaigns:
blogs.microsoft.com/on-the-issues/…
Important note one: Campaigns aren't election infrastructure. So, when DHS said they weren't seeing attacks against election infrastructure (i.e. voting machines, poll books, etc) this doesn't contradict that.
Important note two: We don't know what the intent was behind attempted hacking. So, while the obvious thoughts will turn to hack and leak sabotage, like in 2016...
Most of the time, these groups are just trying to get boring intelligence from people in the know.
China hacking Biden staffers may just mean China wants to know Biden's plans about, say, microprocessor sanctions.
That wouldn't be good, but it's a better bad than actively interfering in the election.
Important note number 3: Microsoft uses elements to refer to groups typically referred to by other names.
Strontium is better known as APT 28 or Fancy Bear and was involved in the 2016 leak campaign.
The element strontium, taken as a supplement, may improve bone health.
Zirconium is a Chinese group typically seen in intellectual property theft, often referred to as Apt 31, Judgement Panda and Bronze Vinewood.
The mineral zirconium is sometimes is good at resisting heat, and makes its way into jet engines and space things.
Phosphorus, AKA Charming Kitten, APT35 and Ajax Security Team is an Iranian group who were caught trying to phish a campaign in 2019.
Phosphorus, the element, is an important component of plant fertilizer that is also found in tooth enamel.
Share this Scrolly Tale with your friends.
A Scrolly Tale is a new way to read Twitter threads with a more visually immersive experience.
Discover more beautiful Scrolly Tales like this.