Hackers linked to the Russian intelligence agencies are targeting British scientists seeking information on a coronavirus vaccine. 

The US National Security Agency and the Canadian Communication Security Establishment put out a joint statement saying the attacks were part of a global campaign by the group known as APT29 to steal the secrets of vaccine research.

NCSC director of operations Paul Chichester said: “We condemn these despicable attacks against those doing vital work to combat the coronavirus pandemic.

“Working with our allies, the NCSC is committed to protecting our most critical assets and our top priority at this time is to protect the health sector.

“We would urge organisations to familiarise themselves with the advice we have published to help defend their networks.”