In the heart of 2025, a ransomware attack crippled several major European airports, causing chaos and disruptions. This cyberattack targeted the check-in and boarding systems, affecting airports like Heathrow in London, Brussels Airport, Brandenburg in Berlin, Cork and Dublin airports in Ireland, among others.
Understanding the Ransomware Attack
The attack targeted Collins Aerospace, an external provider of check-in and boarding systems. Hackers exploited a vulnerability in the MUSE (Multi-User System Environment) system, which is used by multiple airlines to share resources such as check-in desks and boarding gate positions.
Impact of the Ransomware Attack
The incident led to significant disruptions, with over 100 flights either delayed or cancelled. Thousands of passengers had to be processed manually, causing immense inconvenience and delays.
Investigation and Response
Law enforcement is involved in the investigation, and Collins Aerospace is working diligently to restore the system at impacted airports. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in the U.K. is collaborating with Collins Aerospace and affected UK airports to understand the extent of the incident.
Free Guidance for Improved Security
The European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) urges all organizations to utilize its free guidance, services, and tools to enhance their security stance and minimize the risk of cyberattacks.
Prevention Measures: The Picus Blue Report 2025
In light of this incident, it’s crucial to understand prevention measures. The Picus Blue Report 2025 offers insights into more findings on prevention, detection, and data exfiltration trends.
Stay Informed and Protect Yourself
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, so do cyber threats. Stay informed about the latest security measures to protect your systems from ransomware attacks and other cyber threats.
In these challenging times, it’s essential to prioritize cybersecurity to maintain smooth operations and ensure passenger safety. By staying vigilant and employing best practices, we can minimize the impact of such disruptions in the future.
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