Russia-Linked Hacktivist Group Solntsepyok Hits Ukrainian Telecoms in Major Cyber Assault

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Ukraine’s digital frontline is once again under attack — this time from a well-known pro-Russian hacker collective that has shifted its tactics dramatically.

Ukraine’s Call Centers Paralyzed: A New Phase in Cyber Warfare

In the latest development in the ongoing cyber conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the pro-Russian hacktivist group Solntsepyok has claimed responsibility for a coordinated cyberattack on Ukraine’s telecommunications call centers. This marks a significant evolution in the group’s operational focus, shifting from doxxing military personnel to direct assaults on civilian infrastructure.

Solntsepyok publicly announced the attack through their usual online platforms, boasting that they successfully disrupted operations at eight Ukrainian internet service providers: Interlink, AstraNET, SylNet, SmartCom.ua, NPO Gren, Aries of_ua, Corbina, and D-lan. These companies provide critical support to Ukraine’s communication network, particularly through call centers.

According to the

This aggressive pivot to civilian infrastructure signals a stark departure from Solntsepyok’s typical strategy. Previously, the group focused on intelligence gathering and the exposure of personal data related to Ukrainian military figures. Their new approach aligns more closely with Russian cyber warfare doctrine, which emphasizes undermining public trust and operational capacity by targeting infrastructure.

Analysts note that Solntsepyok has a track record of credibility. When they claim an attack or leak, it often turns out to be legitimate. This sets them apart from many other hacktivist groups known for exaggerated claims. Cybersecurity experts warn that their technical sophistication and alleged state ties raise serious concerns. There’s growing evidence that Solntsepyok operates under the influence, if not direct guidance, of Russian state actors.

The group also issued a stark warning: any companies that support call centers in Ukraine may now be considered valid targets. This rhetoric suggests a broader campaign is underway, with further strikes likely.

What Undercode Say:

This cyberattack represents a deeper and more strategic evolution in hybrid warfare. By transitioning from intelligence gathering and doxxing to large-scale infrastructure sabotage, Solntsepyok is reshaping the landscape of digital conflict in the Russo-Ukrainian war.

One of the most notable elements here is the technical nature of the attack. Screenshots of backend systems, monitoring tools, and management interfaces suggest not just entry into a network, but total access and control — a sign of premeditation and likely insider knowledge. This indicates that Solntsepyok is not a loose collection of script kiddies but rather a well-organized, well-funded cyber force.

The selection of targets is also revealing. Call centers are crucial hubs for communication, both in public and private sectors. Disabling them sends a message: nowhere in Ukraine’s digital economy is safe. The implied accusation of fraud by Ukrainian firms also fits a broader Russian narrative aimed at delegitimizing Ukrainian institutions on the world stage.

Solntsepyok’s alignment with Russian cyber doctrine cannot be overlooked. In modern conflict, control over information flows is as critical as physical battlefield victories. By disrupting telecom systems, the attackers are degrading Ukraine’s ability to coordinate, respond, and communicate — key capabilities in any war.

Furthermore, the group’s previous credibility with past operations strengthens the validity of their claims. Unlike groups that thrive on bluster, Solntsepyok often delivers exactly what it threatens. Their evolution into infrastructure sabotage raises the stakes not only for Ukraine but for neighboring countries, NATO members, and even global digital security protocols.

Their public warning to companies indirectly supporting call centers signals a move toward sustained cyber pressure. This message isn’t just for Ukraine — it’s a statement to the international tech community. Any perceived affiliation with Ukrainian digital operations could now carry risk.

The geopolitical implications are vast. If proven, ties to Russian state actors mean these aren’t rogue acts of digital defiance. They’re coordinated cyber strikes with potentially state-sanctioned motives. The plausible deniability built into using a hacktivist group like Solntsepyok provides Russia with cover while achieving tangible digital disruption.

Finally, this incident raises serious questions about cyber defense readiness. How prepared are telecom infrastructures — in Ukraine and elsewhere — to fend off advanced persistent threats with deep state backing? As the war drags on, these attacks will likely escalate, increasing the demand for hardened systems, international collaboration, and strategic countermeasures.

Fact Checker Results ✅

🔍 The Solntsepyok group has a verifiable history of accurate claims

💻 The companies listed are confirmed Ukrainian ISPs

🛰️ Patterns align with broader Russian cyber strategies in the region

Prediction 🔮

Solntsepyok’s shift marks the beginning of a new phase in cyber warfare targeting Ukraine’s civilian digital infrastructure. Expect similar operations to become more frequent and more intense. The group’s declared willingness to hit any service provider linked to Ukrainian call centers suggests a sustained campaign with increasing geopolitical consequences. Cybersecurity defenses across Eastern Europe may need to brace for ripple effects, as the digital frontlines of war continue to expand.

References:

Reported By: cyberpress.org
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