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Cyprus thwarts six attacks by cyber-criminals on key infrastructure

22/10/2024

Cyprus has been targeted by cyber-criminals who launched six attacks in just three days but government officials insist the attempts were thwarted.


The attacks followed a warning from cybersecurity firm Odyssey that systems could be targeted by the hacking group LulzSec Black, including Cypriot infrastructure with a risk of service disruptions, data theft, or system compromises.


In the reported incidents, attempts were made to block access to the government’s central online portal with state-run utilities and the Cypriot subsidiary of a Greek energy company also targeted.


Cyprus’ electricity and telecommunications authorities, as well as the operator of the island nation’s two airports, Hermes and fuel company EKO Cyprus Ltd. reported cyber-attacks.


Only the central portal gov.cy was affected for a few minutes by a DDOS -distributed denial of service attack- with officials insisting  no breach has been achieved. Organisations have been urged to remain vigilant in the face of the repeated cyber-attacks.


Cyta, Cyprus Telecommunications Authority , was also attacked although  its operation had not been affected, according to Maria Tsiakka Olympiou, President of the Board of Directors. She said that Cyta’s website was down for some time, because of the attack, but the organisation had dealt with the incident effectively.


Government officials confirmed that the Cyprus digital security authority was a member of the European cybersecurity network, which assisted countries whenever necessary.


Odyssey had warned of an “imminent” cyberattack against Cyprus. “We have observed that a hacking group known as LulzSec Black has publicly declared its intent to target the critical infrastructure of Cyprus,” said Odyssey. “The attack appears to be politically motivated, citing Cyprus’ relationship with Israel as a factor behind the upcoming cyber offensive.


“The threat is further heightened by the involvement of the group ‘Moroccan Soldiers’ who have expressed their support for LulzSec Black in these operations.”


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