Berlin scrambles after ransomware group leaks stolen government data
Berlin reviews leaked data from Rhysida ransomware attack, sets up crisis unit, warns public against spreading unverified claims.
Berlin's state government said on Saturday it is conducting an intensive review of a large cache of stolen data released by a ransomware group, as investigators work to determine the full scope of the breach that hit two administrative departments.
The leak came just weeks before the city-state is scheduled to hold elections on September 20, adding political urgency to the response.
The data was made public on Friday after an online auction conducted by the Rhysida group ended. The hackers had sought 30 bitcoin (about $77,622) for 5.79 terabytes of information. Berlin had previously stated it would not give in to extortion demands.
A central crisis unit has been established to oversee the verification and assessment of the leaked material, and to coordinate efforts to notify affected citizens and businesses. The city described the incident as "an extremely serious crime" and an attack on the state itself.
Authorities urged the public not to spread unverified claims on social media, and said that individuals whose data may have been compromised will be contacted by the relevant agencies in line with German and European data protection regulations.