Unknown hackers attacked the official website of Russia's human rights ombudsman Vladimir Lukin on Monday, replacing the home page with Muslim imagery and a loud song.
The hacked page was later removed as well, and a visit to the site showed only jumbled text.
Lukin voiced surprise about the attack, saying the website contains no national security secrets and all its information could easily be found on other online resources.
"I have no idea whatsoever about who might have needed to do this," Lukin told Interfax.
After the hacking attack, the homepage initially displayed a message saying it had been "Hacked by MalikiAjdar Pakistan Cyber Attacker" together with an animated version of Pakistan's national emblem, a crescent and a star, and music.
The ombudsman's website was hacked at least once earlier this year. It was knocked offline for about an hour in August and displayed the message, "Hacked by DeTol Cyber." No public explanation has been offered for that attack.
Related articles:
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
