Police Federation affected by further cyber attack

At approximately 2.45pm on 21 March 2019, the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) was subjected to a multi-pronged, sustained cyber-attack.

This is separate to the first attack which happened on 9 March and as a result the advice website set up following the first incident has also been affected.

Early indications show that the attack was different from the first and has affected the wider Federation network, including the majority of local Federation Branch Boards.

There is no evidence as yet that data has been taken and the Federation is working with cyber-crime experts to establish full facts and stabilise the situation.

As per the first attack, a number of databases and systems were affected and everything was immediately locked down by the Federation itself with support from BAE Systems (who were on site at the time) to stop any further spread. As a result, web and email services are currently unavailable.

National Chair John Apter, PFEW said: “The impact on PFEW systems is significant and I want to offer my reassurance that we are doing everything possible, working with the National Crime Agency and BAE Systems – who are experts and professionals in this type of criminal activity, to stop any further damage.

“The necessary steps were taken to tackle the first attack and re-establish business and support for our members.

“Everyone and anyone is vulnerable to attacks like this and unfortunately the reality is that once hit, you can become the target of further attacks.

“Our priority remains to secure and stabilise the situation in order to get back up and running as soon as possible, with our members at the forefront of all decisions that are being made.”

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has been informed.

This is a complex ongoing situation and the National Crime Agency (NCA) is leading on the criminal investigation.

No further comment can be made at this stage but updates will be issued as and when available.

We repeat that there is no indication at this stage that data has been taken but if anyone is concerned a helpline number has been set up – 0800 3580714 – which will be available from 9am-3pm tomorrow and Sunday, and then 8am-6pm Monday-Friday.