A coordinated cyberattack has hit multiple London councils, significantly disrupting public services and potentially compromising resident data. While the full extent is being investigated, early reports suggest a ransomware incident targeting shared IT infrastructure.
Business Impact
This incident underscores the fragility of public sector IT and the cascading risks of shared service models. Disruption to essential services (housing, benefits) erodes public trust and incurs high recovery costs.
Why It Happened
Attackers likely exploited vulnerabilities in a managed service provider (MSP) or shared software platform used by the councils, allowing them to hit multiple targets simultaneously.
Recommended Executive Action
Review business continuity plans for critical service disruptions. Ensure that third-party vendors and shared service providers adhere to strict security standards and have isolated backup systems.
Hashtags: #CyberAttack #London #PublicSector #Ransomware #CriticalInfrastructure #InfoSec #CyberSecurity