Ukraine and Russia say their emergency alert apps were hacked, sending false warnings

Authorities in both Ukraine and Russia said government-backed emergency alert apps were hacked late Sunday and early Monday, sending users false warnings.

In Ukraine, the Air Alert app, which residents use to seek shelter from Russian missile and drone strikes, sent fake alerts that included warnings of radiation, a chemical threat and street fighting in Kyiv. Ukraine's air force told residents there was no radiation threat. Officials said the app was briefly suspended and was restored overnight.

Hours later, Russia's Emergency Situations Ministry said its mobile app had also been hit by a cyberattack that spread false information. The ministry said its main public warning system, including SMS alerts, broadcasts and sirens, was not affected.

It was not clear who carried out the attacks or whether they were connected. Two hacking groups claimed responsibility, but those claims have not been independently verified.

Source: BBC News, The Associated Press, The Record. Read the full report from BBC News on the hacked Ukrainian and Russian alert apps.