Swiss Intelligence Service Faces Russian Espionage Investigation

Defense Minister launches probe into alleged sensitive data leaks through cyber division to Russian intelligence services

Key Takeaways

Swiss Defense Minister Martin Pfister launched an investigation into alleged FIS data leaks to Russia
The leaks occurred through collaboration between FIS cyber team and Kaspersky between 2015-2020
Foreign intelligence services threatened to end cooperation with FIS over the incident
FIS initiated reorganization of its cyber division in 2021

By The Numbers

2015-2020

Period of alleged data transfer

March 1, 2024

Date of comprehensive FIS reorganization

They Said

"This is espionage on behalf of Russia"
— Christo Grozev, investigative journalist

"A functioning intelligence service is of central importance for the protection and security of Switzerland, especially in the current global situation"
— Defense Ministry statement