Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) was hit by a cyber attack on February 14th, which resulted in its website and mobile app being knocked offline. The airline confirmed that its customer data was compromised during the attack. Anonymous Sudan, a group of hackers, claimed responsibility for the attack, which targeted SAS on Valentine’s Day.
The airline said that it was working on a solution to the problem, and apologized to its customers for the inconvenience caused by the attack. The airline urged customers not to use its mobile app, as they may be served incorrect information.
Anonymous Sudan Claims Responsibility for the Attack
According to reports, Anonymous Sudan was able to gain access to the SAS network through a phishing email. The group sent an email to an employee of the airline, which contained a link to a fake login page. When the employee entered their login details, the hackers were able to gain access to the network.
Once the hackers had gained access to the network, they were able to launch a ransomware attack on the airline’s systems. The ransomware encrypted the data on the airline’s servers, making it impossible for the airline to access its data.
The Ransomware Attack and the Refusal to Pay Ransom
The hackers then demanded a ransom in exchange for the decryption key. The airline refused to pay the ransom, and instead worked with cybersecurity experts to restore its systems and recover its data.
Despite the efforts of the airline and cybersecurity experts, customer data was compromised during the attack. Anonymous Sudan claims to have stolen the personal and financial information of over 500,000 SAS customers. The stolen data includes names, email addresses, phone numbers, and credit card information.
Compromised Customer Data and Disruption of Services
SAS has urged its customers to be vigilant and to monitor their financial statements for any unauthorized transactions. The airline has also advised its customers to change their passwords and to enable two-factor authentication on their accounts.
Alleged Motive for the Attack: SAS’ Support for the Sudanese Government
In a statement, Anonymous Sudan claimed that the attack was carried out in retaliation for the actions of the SAS in Sudan. The group accused the airline of supporting the government of Sudan, which is currently engaged in a brutal civil war.
The SAS has not commented on the allegations made by Anonymous Sudan. The airline has said that it is working with law enforcement agencies to investigate the attack and to identify those responsible.
The cyber attack on SAS highlights the growing threat of cybercrime and the need for businesses to take cybersecurity seriously. In recent years, cyber attacks have become more frequent and more sophisticated, and no business is immune from the threat.
The Growing Threat of Cybercrime and the Importance of Cybersecurity Measures
To protect themselves from cyber attacks, businesses need to invest in cybersecurity measures, including firewalls, antivirus software, and employee training. They also need to have a plan in place for responding to a cyber attack, including a communication strategy for customers and employees.
The cyber attack on SAS has resulted in the compromise of customer data and the disruption of the airline’s services. Anonymous Sudan has claimed responsibility for the attack, which was carried out in retaliation for the airline’s alleged support for the government of Sudan. The attack highlights the need for businesses to take cybersecurity seriously and to invest in measures to protect themselves from cybercrime.