Nuclear threats and street brawls: Russia, Ukraine report attacks on their emergency alert apps

Cyberattacks on both Russia’s and Ukraine’s emergency alert apps resulted in fake messages about missile and nuclear strikes broadcast to the public.

Officials from both countries confirmed the attacks, which occurred at similar times, on Sunday evening.

According to public statements and messages sent via social media, Ukraine’s alert app was hit first, with the country’s Air Force quick to dispel nuclear fears.

"The Air Alert app has likely been compromised," it said via Telegram at around 2100 UTC. "There is no radiation threat! Stay calm, follow our messages on our channel!"

At around 0030 UTC on Monday, Russia's Ministry of Emergency Situations confirmed the country’s app had also been abused, with fake messages sent to citizens' devices.

"Attention! The Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations' mobile app has been subjected to a massive cyberattack, allowing attackers to send fake information to the public," it said, also via Telegram. "Work is currently underway to patch the vulnerability and restore normal operation." …