January 24, 2024 at 06:18AM
Veolia North America and Southern Water were both hit by ransomware attacks resulting in data breaches. Veolia assures its water operations weren’t affected, but personal data may have been compromised. Southern Water is investigating a ransomware group’s claim of stealing personal information and documents. The water sector has seen increased cyber threats.
Key takeaways from the meeting notes:
– Veolia North America and Southern Water in the UK were targeted in ransomware attacks, resulting in data breaches.
– Veolia confirmed the ransomware attack affected its internal backend systems, leading to the disruption of online bill payment systems and potential compromise of personal information.
– Meanwhile, Southern Water is investigating a ransomware attack by the Black Basta group, which claims to have stolen personal information and corporate documents, and is threatening to make the data public if a ransom is not paid.
– Despite the attacks, both companies have stated that their water and wastewater treatment operations are not affected, and their services are operating normally.
– The water sector in the West has been increasingly targeted by cybercriminals, and there have been previous instances of cyberattacks on water utilities in the US and Ireland.
– The US government has published cybersecurity guidance for water and wastewater utilities, and CISA is offering free vulnerability scanning service to water utilities.
These key points provide a clear understanding of the ransomware attacks on Veolia and Southern Water as well as the potential implications and responses from the companies and the wider water sector.