WASHINGTON – The US government confirmed Sunday that its computer networkshad been hit by a cyberattack, as The Washington Post reported at least twodepartments had been targeted by Russian state hackers.

“We have been working closely with our agency partners regarding recentlydiscovered activity on government networks,” a spokesperson for theCybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency told AFP.

“CISA is providing technical assistance to affected entities as they workto identify and mitigate any potential compromises.”

The Post said the hacks were linked to an attack last week on cybersecurityfirm FireEye, which said its own defenses were breached by sophisticatedattackers who stole tools used to test customers’ computer systems.

FireEye said it suspected the attack was state-sponsored.

US media reports also said the FBI was investigating a group working forthe Russian foreign intelligence service, SVR, and that breaches had beentaking place for months.

The same group also reportedly hacked US government agencies during theObama administration.

“The United States government is aware of these reports and we are takingall necessary steps to identify and remedy any possible issues related tothis situation,” National Security Council spokesman John Ullyot said.

Russia’s embassy in the US hit back later Sunday against what it said werethe “unfounded” media claims, denying any role in the alleged attacks.

“Malicious activities in the information space contradicts the principlesof the Russian foreign policy, national interests and our understanding ofinterstate relations,” the embassy said in a statement on its officialFacebook page.

“Russia does not conduct offensive operations in the cyber domain.” -APP/AFP