Ransomware Chaos: Europe's Airports Grapple with Disruptions

Recent airport disruptions across Europe, affecting automated check-in systems, were confirmed as the result of a ransomware attack, reported the EU's cybersecurity agency. The attack affected major airports including Berlin, Brussels, and London Heathrow, causing flight cancellations and delays for thousands of passengers.

ENISA has identified ransomware as a growing threat to critical infrastructure, with governments and corporations, such as Jaguar Land Rover, falling victim in recent months. Sophos analyst Rafe Pilling noted an increase in high-profile targets but pointed out these attacks remain exceptions rather than norms.

Collins Aerospace is collaborating with airports to restore functionality. Meanwhile, airports like Brussels resorted to manual check-in methods. However, airports such as Dublin reported minimal impacts. The Bitkom survey highlights ransomware as the leading type of cyberattack, emphasizing the need for heightened cybersecurity measures.

(With inputs from agencies.)