FBI Director Kash Patel warned Friday that Russian-linked cyber actors are targeting users of encrypted messaging platforms, including Signal, in a broad campaign aimed at compromising sensitive accounts.

According to Patel, the operation focuses on “individuals of high intelligence value,” such as current and former U.S. officials, military personnel, political figures, and journalists. He said the effort has already resulted in unauthorized access to thousands of accounts worldwide.

Once access is obtained, attackers can view private messages, access contact lists, impersonate victims, and launch further phishing attempts using trusted identities.

Patel emphasized that the threat does not stem from vulnerabilities in the apps themselves, but from user-targeted tactics like phishing and social engineering designed to trick individuals into giving up access.

The FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency have issued joint guidance to help users recognize and defend against the activity.

Officials say the campaign reflects a broader strategy by Russia to expand digital surveillance efforts beyond its borders, targeting high-value individuals through account compromise rather than technical flaws in encrypted platforms.