The archive contained roughly of internal data, including:
RFE/RL confirmed the breach, stating it was a targeted effort to intimidate their staff. They emphasized that such attacks are a reaction to their investigative work on corruption and human rights.
Emails and chat logs between journalists and editors. ras24.rar
Unpublished investigative reports and sensitive interview transcripts. The Impact
The leak was particularly dangerous because it exposed the identities of journalists and their sources in a region where independent media often faces government pressure. The archive contained roughly of internal data, including:
In October 2024, a massive data leak was publicized when a compressed file named (standing for R adio A zattyk S ervice 20 24 ) began circulating on Telegram and dark web forums. The leak was attributed to a hacking group or state-sponsored actors aiming to discredit the news organization. What was in the file?
Internal editorial guidelines, financial information, and personal data of employees. The leak was attributed to a hacking group
Following the leak, several anonymous Telegram channels used the stolen data to craft narratives claiming the outlet was "influenced by foreign intelligence," a common tactic used to delegitimize RFE/RL's reporting.