Hackney Council files leaked following October 2020 cyber attack

January 8, 2021

FEATURED

Recent claims suggest that Hackney Council have had sensitive documents leaked online following a serious ransomware attack in October 2020, reports Sky News.

The East London Council reported the attack to UK data watchdogs after cyber criminals stole staff and resident data.

Hackney Council have confirmed that they are working with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and Ministry of Housing to assist in the investigation.

Local authority attack “utterly deplorable”

A Hackney Council spokesperson remarked: “We are angry and disappointed that the organised criminals responsible for October’s cyberattack have chosen to publish data stolen in October.

“We are working with the NCSC, National Crime Agency, Information Commissioner’s Office, the Metropolitan Police and other experts to investigate what has been published and take immediate action where necessary.

“We understand and share the concern of residents about any risk to their personal data, and we are working as quickly as possible with our partners to assess the data and take action, including informing people who are affected.

“It is utterly deplorable that criminals first chose to attack and steal from a local authority and its residents in this way in the middle of responding to a global pandemic, and we will do everything we can to help bring them to justice.

A National Crime Agency spokesperson added: “We are aware that information has been published online as a result of a cyber incident affecting Hackney Borough Council.

“NCA officers are working closely with the council and the Metropolitan Police Service to manage any risk.”

To find out more information, visit: https://news.sky.com

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