Security measures: Paper and pen instead of computer
Following the disconnection of IT systems of the Vorpommern-Rügen district from the network, experts are working on a solution to the problem. The administration announced on Tuesday evening that the systems had been disconnected as a precautionary measure for security reasons. A district spokeswoman did not say on Wednesday morning whether it was a cyber attack. The extent of the problem is expected to be known in the afternoon.
The administration can only be reached by telephone or in person. Specialist applications, for example for vehicle registration, were not working. Certain appointments that had already been arranged were taking place, such as examinations of pre-school children at the health department or appointments at the job center. Requests were recorded by hand. Many specialist applications were linked to the state or federal government and had been disconnected as a precaution.
Meanwhile, it has been announced that the planning company Inros Lackner in Rostock has been affected by a cyber attack. According to the company's website, there has been considerable disruption to communication and work processes. The company is working to restore its systems. According to the company, it is planning buildings, including bridges, port facilities, as well as schools and research facilities.
Only a week and a half ago, a hacker attack on Rostocker Straßenbahn AG (RSAG) became known. The work of the local transport company in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania's largest city is still restricted. According to information from the company at the beginning of the week, there are still massive disruptions in communication and sales. Tickets could only be purchased from ticket machines with cash.
According to the Ministry of the Interior, the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) of the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is monitoring the cases. A spokeswoman did not provide further details at first.
Given the current situation where several municipalities in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern are experiencing IT system issues due to cyber attacks, it would be beneficial for municipalities to have backup plans using traditional methods like paper and pen. For instance, in case of an internet outage, municipalities can maintain essential services such as record-keeping, and communication with citizens by utilizing these old-school methods. Also, municipalities can consider investing in cybersecurity measures to prevent such incidents in the future, ensuring their digital presence remains secure and operational.
Source: www.dpa.com
