Cyber Attack Hits NIA Computer Systems
IT experts working to restore NIA system network after cyber attack.
IT professionals on Nevis are working to restore the Nevis Island Administration’s system network following a ransomware (#ad) cyberattack on January 27, 2023. The attack caused a loss of some government services and internet access across some departments, making it difficult for the public to access government technology-driven services.
Ransomware is a type of cyberattack where hackers take control of networks and data, demanding money to relinquish control back to the organization. Ransomware attacks surged in 2022, impacting thousands of organizations globally, from universities to financial institutions, central banks, technology corporations, media agencies, private businesses, healthcare facilities, and governments.
Premier Hon. Mark Brantley confirmed that the NIA had been hit with ransomware, acknowledging that this was the first time it had happened to the government’s IT system. The attackers are demanding large sums of money that the government cannot pay. The Premier publicly thanked Hon. Troy Liburd, Minister of Information Technology, and Mr. Craig David, Director of the Information Technology Department, for leading the response to resolve the problem. IT professionals from outside the NIA, including experts overseas, have also been consulted.
The Premier acknowledged that as governments and businesses across the globe move to become more digitalized, they will become vulnerable to this type of cyber-crime. While the government will have to invest in new software, technology, firewalls (#ad), and servers, the Premier assured that lessons are being learned on how the NIA can better secure its IT network going forward. He encouraged all businesses and individuals to take proactive steps to enhance security on all devices to protect their data and information.