**HEADLINE:** Ransomware Attack Hits Romanian Water Management Authority, 1,000 Computers Taken Offline
**DATE:** March 10, 2023
Romania's water management authorities have been hit by a devastating ransomware attack, leaving over 1,000 computers offline and crippling the country's regional offices. The cyberattack, which occurred in recent days, has affected 10 of the 11 regional offices, with Windows workstations and domain name servers also being targeted.
The attackers used BitLocker encryption, a tool developed by Microsoft, to lock down the systems, demanding that the authorities contact them within seven days. The message left behind by the hackers is ominous, but it remains unclear whether this is more than just a prank or a genuine attempt to extort money from the institution.
Fortunately, Romania's taps remain flowing freely, as no actual water control systems were reportedly affected. According to officials, control activity has been carried out within normal parameters through dispatches and voice communications.
This is not an isolated incident, however. Last year, Denmark was hit by a similar cyberattack that resulted in actual burst pipes in the town of Køge, leaving 500 homes without water for several hours. The attack was attributed to the pro-Russian group Z-Pentest, which has been linked to several other high-profile attacks on Western nations' infrastructure.
The Romanian National Directorate for Cyber Security (DNSC) is currently investigating the matter and working to restore the affected systems. Unfortunately, as in many cases, it remains unclear how the attack vector was compromised or whether this was a targeted operation.
Some experts have speculated that this latest attack may be part of a broader "hybrid war" strategy employed by certain nations against Western targets. In recent weeks, both Denmark and Germany have accused Russia of cyberattacks on their infrastructure, with Germany attributing an air traffic control system breach to the Russian Fancy Bear group.
Despite these incidents, most systems administrators will tell you that cybersecurity is often overlooked as a low-priority item in favor of more pressing concerns. As we've seen time and again, it takes a major attack for organizations to take notice and implement real change.
Perhaps the silver lining of this latest cyberattack is increased public awareness about the importance of cybersecurity. It's high time for institutions and individuals alike to wake up to the reality that our digital infrastructure is under constant threat from both internal and external forces.
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**About the Author:**
Bruno Ferreira is a contributing writer for Tom's Hardware with decades of experience in PC hardware and assorted sundries. He has a passion for detail and enjoys exploring the intricacies of technology. When not writing or tinkering, he can be found playing games or attending live music shows and festivals.