The Czech intelligence services say they have uncovered and dismantled a Russian espionage network. The operation took place last year but was only now disclosed by the head of the Czech domestic intelligence service (BIS).
The network was intended to carry out cyberattacks on targets in the Czech Republic and partner countries. The Russian secret service FSB reportedly coordinated the activities of the espionage network with support from the Russian embassy in Prague.
The Czech news magazine Respekt had previously reported on the network. According to that magazine, the Russian agents established computer companies that served as a cover for espionage activities. Several suspects also obtained Czech nationality without difficulty, Respekt said. Corruption may have been involved in this.
The Czechs say the country is also increasingly facing espionage activities from China. Beijing would be attempting to persuade various policymakers, scientists, and security personnel to gather information.
A 2017 report from NUKIB, a Czech governmental agency overseeing cybercrime, reveals that Russians and Chinese are steadily ramping up their espionage activities in the Czech Republic.