DDoS attacks target Eurovision Song Contest as hackers seek attention

Swiss authorities warn that cybercriminals launched several distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks against various websites in the country in connection with the Eurovision Song Contest. The attacks were expected and did not disrupt Eurovision’s operations.

The Swiss National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) alerts organizations about potential further attacks that are aimed at attracting media attention.

They’re easier to pull off, do not cause permanent damage, do not result in any data leakage, and are often considered a nuisance rather than a real cyberattack.

“As expected, before the final of the Eurovision Song Contest, denial-of-service attacks began targeting various organisations linked to the event. The aim of a DDoS attack is to overload websites and applications with targeted requests to such an extent that they are no longer or only partially accessible,” the NCSC said.

The watchdog added that the attacks are in line with its previous expectations and have so far had no impact on the Eurovision.

Swiss authorities expect DDoS attacks to continue until the end of the Eurovision Song Contest, with the grand final scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 17th.

Eurovision is an annual international music competition, featuring participants across Europe and other countries.

DDoS attacks “are a popular means for attackers to draw attention to themselves,” the NCSC said.

The authority has warned the operators of critical infrastructures and organisations involved in the organisation of the Eurovision Song Contest about such attacks and “called on them to take appropriate measures.”