In a ransomware cyber attack in October just now coming to light, a gang of hackers is demanding £ 600,000 in Bitcoin to release the British Library’s data. The attack also knocked out the facility’s Wifi, computer catalogue, and most all of the rest of its electronic services. The attackers later tried to auction off the library’s personnel data and other sensitive information on the dark web, according to Museums Association. The attackers also dumped nearly 600 GB of data online.
The library won’t have access to its services again until January 15, 2024, when it’ll begin a phased return to full capacity, according to The Bookseller. Despite the attack, though, the British Library’s physical facilities have stayed open.
The cyber attack has raised concerns among other museums and libraries around the world, many of which don’t the budget for intensive cybersecurity, that they might be next for cyber attacks.
Greg Zimmerman is senior contributing editor for FacilitiesNet.com and Building Operating Management magazine.
