The Government of British Overseas Territory Bermuda has linked a cyberattack affecting all its departments’ IT systems since Thursday to hackers based out of Russia.
“The public is advised that the Government Is currently experiencing internet/email and phone service interruptions. All Departments are impacted,” the Bermuda Government said.
“The Department of Information and Digital Technology (IDT) is working quickly to restore service.”
David Burt, the Premier of Bermuda, also said in a press conference based on a briefing received right before the event that the investigation is yet to find evidence the attackers have stolen data from impacted systems.
“There has been an incident, which is affecting not only the Bermuda Government but some other regional governments as well,” Burt revealed.
“Our initial indication is it’s come from an external source, most likely from Russia, and we are working with agencies to make sure that we can identify any particular challenges and make sure that services are restored as quickly as possible.”
According to local media reports, Burt said that it’s believed that other Caribbean jurisdictions have also been affected.
Earlier today, the Bermuda Government also revealed that additional service disruptions are expected throughout the day due to the network interruption issues.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and IDT teams are still working on restoring services and access to the impacted systems.
“Work to facilitate payroll and vendor payments has commenced albeit payment delays are expected. Cashiers are accepting cash and checks only at this time,” the Bermuda Government added in an update issued through the official Twitter account.
“Government House has been apprised of the situation and is working collaboratively with the Government.”
According to the statement, the Government will hold a press briefing later today to provide additional information regarding the investigation’s findings.