"Equipment – both software and hardware – coming from Eastern countries has been observed to contain vulnerabilities and security gaps that later allow remote connection," Algimantas Melaikis, a specialist working at the Defense Ministry's Second Investigation Department, said at Thursday's meeting of the parliamentary National Security and Defense Committee dedicated to cyber security.
In his words, cyber spying is a huge threat.
"After entering a computer, the virus may collect information of specified character, observe all network processes and manage the computer remotely, may activate and register video and audio, can sit quietly and wait for master's instructions and upon receiving them, start its work before destroying itself without any trace," the specialist explained.
In Melaikis' words, the virus may also penetrate mobile devices.
"Furthermore, constant improvements are made, with extensive resources granted for the purpose and individual countries supporting and financing the activities," Melaikis said.
He said NATO has acknowledged the Internet as a new battlefield, which means that all cyber attacks can be used as weapons.
"A modern tank containing all equipment may cost 4 million US dollars. We all realize what it is capable of. (...) Meanwhile, leasing 10,000 computers connected into a botnet may cost 200 US dollars a day. It is up to the aims and fantasy of the ill-willed persons to decide what such powerful an army can do," said the specialist from the Second Investigation Department.
Melaikis emphasized that the most dangerous and powerful are cyber aggressors supported by governments. Their actions tend to be well-coordinated, they enjoy extensive funding and access to scientific and economic potential, they are supported with their country's resources and infrastructure.
According to data provided by the Communications Regulatory Authority, 10,200 cyber incidents were reported in Lithuania this year, as compared with 21,400 last year and 21,800 in 2011.
Cyber security has been making headlines over the past several weeks following attacks against news portals 15min.lt and delfi.lt as well as some others.
The police has opened a pre-trial investigation into the incident.
