Suspect Arrested in Major Cyber-Attack Targeting Airports: What You Need to Know

A man in his forties was recently arrested in West Sussex related to a serious cyber-attack that disrupted several major European airports, including Heathrow. The National Crime Agency (NCA) said the investigation is focused on an incident that affected Collins Aerospace, a US software provider crucial for check-in and baggage handling systems.

This cyber incident led to hundreds of flight delays. In some cases, airport staff had to use pen and paper for check-in as the software failed. Paul Foster, head of the NCA’s national cyber crime unit, stated that while the arrest is a positive development, the investigation is still in early stages.

The man was taken into custody on suspicion of violating the Computer Misuse Act but has since been released on bail. An internal memo obtained by the BBC revealed that Collins Aerospace is struggling to restore its software. They attempted to relaunch the system but are now working on rebuilding it from scratch. There’s no clear timeline for when the software will be operational again, and travelers can expect at least another week of manual processes.

To assist passengers, extra staff have been deployed at terminals, though delays persist. The European Union’s cybersecurity agency noted that ransomware was involved in the attack, a tactic often used to disrupt systems and demand payment in cryptocurrency to undo the damage.

This attack on Collins Aerospace, discovered late Friday, rippled through airports across Europe, including Brussels, Dublin, and Berlin, leading to ongoing cancellations and delays. Alarmingly, a report from French aerospace firm Thales highlights that cyber-attacks on the aviation sector surged by 600% over the past year.

Experts point out that as technology advances, the aviation industry becomes more vulnerable to cyber threats. The reliance on software for crucial operations means any disruption can have widespread consequences. It’s a reminder for airlines and airport authorities to bolster their cybersecurity measures. As the world becomes increasingly digital, protecting sensitive data and systems is more crucial than ever.

For more insights into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity in aviation, check out the latest report from Thales here.

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