Ransomware attack at the Fraunhofer for Industrial Engineering
The Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering in Stuttgart has fallen victim to a ransomware attack. The extent of the damage is still unclear.
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As the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering (IAO) in Stuttgart has now announced, it was the target of a ransomware attack on 27 December. The attack led to certain systems and data being compromised. The exact extent of the damage cannot yet be determined.
According to current knowledge, it is a local incident that only affects the IAO, according to a press release. The institute is working closely with IT security experts and the relevant investigating authorities to fully analyze the incident and take appropriate measures. Accordingly, precautions have been taken to limit further damage as far as possible.
"Inadmissible disclosure" possible
It cannot be ruled out that there may have been an unauthorized disclosure of personal data to third parties. The Fraunhofer IAO processes personal research data in a form that does not allow any direct conclusions to be drawn about natural persons.
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Nevertheless, it cannot be completely ruled out that, in individual cases, those affected could suffer disadvantages as a result of unintentional publication. Fraunhofer is closely monitoring developments and intends to inform those affected if there is any indication of this. The Bavarian data protection authority has also been informed in accordance with legal requirements, as have security and police authorities. The IAO has also informed some of its cooperation partners about the incident. For tactical investigative reasons, no further details of the incident can be disclosed at this time.
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