Sweden’s central bank, Riksbank, has initiated a police investigation following a significant ransomware attack on Tietoevry’s data center. This incident has disrupted various IT systems, including those critical to government operations and private enterprises across Sweden.
Key Takeaways
- Riksbank’s IT systems were compromised due to a ransomware attack on Tietoevry.
- The attack has affected multiple sectors, including healthcare and entertainment.
- The ransomware group Akira is believed to be behind the attack.
Overview Of The Attack
On January 26, 2024, Riksbank reported that some of its IT systems were rendered inaccessible due to a ransomware attack targeting Tietoevry, a Finnish software company. The attack occurred in the early hours of Saturday, leading to significant disruptions in services.
The Riksbank’s human resources and payroll systems were still offline as of Thursday, indicating the severity of the breach. The attack has not only impacted the central bank but has also affected numerous government agencies and private companies, including Sweden’s parliament and its largest cinema chain, Filmstaden.
Impact On Various Sectors
The ramifications of the cyber-attack have been widespread:
- Healthcare: Hospitals faced disruptions in accessing healthcare records, impacting patient care.
- Entertainment: Filmstaden’s online ticket purchasing system was rendered inoperable, affecting movie-goers.
- Education: Universities reported difficulties in accessing staff databases, hindering administrative functions.
The Ransomware Group Akira
The attack has been attributed to a ransomware group known as Akira, which has gained notoriety for targeting high-value organizations. Cybersecurity experts have labeled Akira as a formidable threat, with a history of attacks across Europe, North America, and Australia. The group has claimed hundreds of victims since its emergence in March 2023.
Response From Tietoevry
In response to the attack, Tietoevry has mobilized an extensive team of experts to restore services for its clients. Venke Bordal, head of Tietoevry Tech Services in Sweden, expressed regret over the inconvenience caused by the attack and emphasized the company’s commitment to collaborating with law enforcement and authorities to support the ongoing investigation.
Conclusion
The cyber-attack on Tietoevry’s data center serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by organizations in today’s digital landscape. As Riksbank and Tietoevry work to mitigate the damage and restore services, the incident highlights the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures across all sectors. The investigation by the police is expected to shed light on the attack’s specifics and help prevent future incidents.
Sources
- Sweden’s Riksbank Turns to Police Following Tietoevry Cyber-Attack, Data Center Knowledge.
