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A man types on a computer keyboard
Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) has been targeted in a ransomware attack, with hackers claiming to have stolen over 450 000 files.
The breach affected a human resources database used for job applications.
Stats SA says it’s working with authorities and will notify the information regulator. The XP95- ransomware group is demanding a ransom with a deadline of April 20th.
Statistician-General and Head of Stats SA Risenga Maluleke says, “What was taken from us, was more files that relate to HR information, we have an e-recruitment facility, which people can access online from anywhere. So, this breach could have entered our systems through facilities or platforms that they use, they could have been using an internet cafe, they could’ve been using their phones, that may not be protected- and in this regard, it’s their information. So, it’s more like identity theft that is more at risk.”
