Norwegian Intelligence Chief Accuses Russian Hackers Of Masterminding Dam Sabotage

Beate Gangaras, head of the Norwegian security police agency (PST) (photo: x @Tore_Aurstad)

JAKARTA The Russian hacker took control of a dam in Norway earlier this year. This was said by the head of the counter-intelligence agency of the Nordic state on Wednesday, August 12. It also marks the first time Oslo has officially accused his neighbor of being the perpetrator of a cyberattack.

On April 7, at a dam in Bremanger, western Norway, hackers opened the floodgates and released 500 liters of water per second for four hours before the attack was detected and stopped, according to previous authorities. But there were no casualties in the attack.

Norway generates most of its electricity through hydroelectric dams, and intelligence authorities have previously warned of the risk of an attack on the country's energy infrastructure.

"Over the past year, we have seen changes in activity from pro-Russian cyber actors," said Beate Gangaras, head of the Norwegian security police agency (PST), in a speech.

"The incident in Bremanger is one of these activities," added Gangaas.

The goal of such an operation is to influence and cause fear and chaos among the general public, he said. Our Russian neighbors have become more dangerous.

The Russian Embassy in Oslo has not yet responded to a request for comment.

In September, Britain's intelligence chief accused Russia of carrying out a "very reckless sabotage campaign" in Europe, partly to prevent European countries from helping Ukraine. Moscow denies these accusations.

After his speech, Gangaras told that he announced this contribution to warn the general public and try to prevent Russia from launching further attacks.

"I want Norwegians to be prepared," Gangaras was quoted as saying by VOI from Reuters.

Norway, a NATO member, shares the border with Russia in the Arctic region. Like other Nordic countries, Norway is a strong supporter of Ukraine. The country is also the largest gas supplier in Europe, most of which are transported via pipelines under the North Sea.