St Helens Council is currently probing a suspected ransomware assault. The local authority confirmed that some of its internal systems have been compromised, characterizing the situation as “complex and evolving.” Cybersecurity specialists are on the case.
The breach was first detected on August 21, prompting the Council to promptly notify its external cybersecurity contractor. The Council has since implemented several security protocols to ensure the safety of its IT networks. As they navigate this ongoing crisis, the local authority is advising residents to exercise caution online and remain vigilant about any communications they might receive from the council.
Over recent years, UK councils have been grappling with a surge in cyberattacks. In 2020, both Redcar and Cleveland Council and Hackney Council were victims of ransomware attacks, incurring damages of £10 million and £12 million respectively. In 2021, Gloucester City Council suffered a similar fate, impacting benefit payments, planning applications, and electoral data, costing taxpayers approximately £845,000 for server restoration. Sefton Council recently reported fending off over 30,000 cyberattacks monthly, marking a 50% increase. Meanwhile, Bristol City Council admitted to heightened cyberattack risks due to delayed IT updates. Shockingly, UK councils experienced 10,000 cyberattacks daily in August 2022, a 14% year-on-year increase.
A study by ERP SaaS provider TechnologyOne revealed that 59% of senior UK council leaders believe their cybersecurity strategies are outdated. Surveying over 500 senior managers, only 25% prioritized cybersecurity, while 26% admitted to making no advancements in this area. Councils in the South West, Yorkshire, North West, and Scotland are lagging the most. The UK government’s National Cyber Strategy 2022 emphasizes fortifying the public sector against external threats and enhancing local council cybersecurity.
Source: CSO
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