Security News > 2021 > January > Scotland environmental regulator hit by ‘ongoing’ ransomware attack
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency confirmed on Thursday that some of its contact center, internal systems, processes and internal communications were affected following a ransomware attack that took place on Christmas Eve.
"SEPA confirms ongoing ransomware attack likely to be by international serious and organised cyber-crime groups intent on disrupting public services and extorting public funds," the agency said.
Email systems have also been impacted by the Xmas Eve ransomware attack and are still down, with some internal systems and external data products to be offline in the short term.
SEPA is currently working with cybersecurity specialists and experts from multi-agency partners including Police Scotland and the National Cyber Security Centre on eradication, remediation, and recovery tasks.
"Whilst having moved quickly to isolate our systems, cyber security specialists, working with SEPA, Scottish Government, Police Scotland and the National Cyber Security Centre have now confirmed the significance of the ongoing incident," A'Hearn added.
"Partners have confirmed that SEPA remains subject to an ongoing ransomware attack likely to be by international serious and organised cyber-crime groups intent on disrupting public services and extorting public funds.
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