Microsoft and the Justice Department have thwarted a significant Russian cyber campaign targeting democratic institutions ahead of the presidential election.

U.S. authorities and Microsoft say hackers linked to Russian intelligence targeted dozens of former military and intelligence officials, journalists and civil society groups with a sophisticated campaign designed to steal information.

With the 2024 US Presidential election so close, Microsoft is confident this disruption has come at a critical point for Russian operations looking to undermine and interfere in Western democracies. The action is said to have provided valuable intelligence about the group and the scope of its activities.