Security News > 2024 > February > Hessen Consumer Center says systems encrypted by ransomware
The story has been updated to clarify that the Hessen Consumer Center is not part of the government.
The Hessen Consumer Center in Germany has been hit with a ransomware attack, causing IT systems to shut down and temporarily disrupting its availability.
The Hessen Consumer Center is an non-profit organization that aims to provide unbiased and neutral advice to the residents of Hessen about consumer law, telephone and internet, finance and insurance, energy saving, health and care, food and nutrition.
"As a result, the Hessen Consumer Center could not be reached by telephone for a short time on Friday."
Although the communication disruptions have been mostly addressed, and the website is fully operational, people continue to have trouble reaching the consumer advice center and consumer advocates.
"The data on the server and some backup systems is currently encrypted. It is not yet clear whether or which data has been leaked. As soon as it becomes clear, those affected will be informed." - Hessen Consumer Advice Center.