Tewkesbury Borough Council found itself in the midst of a major incident as a cyberattack disrupted its operations, prompting immediate action to contain the threat. The council swiftly shut down all systems to prevent further damage and initiated an investigation with the assistance of the National Cyber Security Centre and the counter-fraud agency. Despite the chaos, Chief Executive Alistair Cunningham reassured the public that there is no evidence of data being removed or compromised.
The ongoing investigation into the cyberattack has led the council to provide precautionary advice to residents and customers, urging them to remain vigilant against phishing emails and fraudulent activities. It emphasizes the importance of using strong passwords and promptly reporting any suspicious activity. The council also directed individuals to seek further guidance from the National Cyber Security Centre’s website to enhance their cybersecurity measures.
In a statement to BBC Radio Gloucestershire, Cunningham outlined the discovery of unknown user accounts within the council’s system, leading to the immediate shutdown. While services for vulnerable residents remain a priority, the council is working diligently to restore normal operations and assist those in need. Staff are available at various locations to support residents and address their concerns amidst the cyber crisis.
To address data protection concerns, Graeme Simpson has been appointed as the Data Protection Officer to handle inquiries related to the cyberattack. Residents can contact Simpson with any data breach concerns and expect updates from the council on potential risks to their information. Cunningham acknowledged the challenge of assessing the full extent of the cyberattack and stressed the importance of a thorough evaluation before reopening all services. Waste and recycling services remain operational during this period to ensure essential functions continue uninterrupted.
The council’s commitment to providing updates and ensuring residents are informed demonstrates a dedication to transparency and community assurance. While the investigation into the cyberattack continues, efforts are focused on understanding the scope of the infiltration and safeguarding data from further threats. The Cyber Express sought additional details from Tewkesbury Borough Council on the incident, but no further official statements have been released at this time.
As the council navigates through this cyber crisis, it remains vigilant in protecting its systems and ensuring the safety of residents’ data. By prioritizing transparency, communication, and community support, Tewkesbury Borough Council aims to overcome the challenges posed by the cyberattack and emerge stronger in the face of evolving cybersecurity threats.