Cyber ​​attack disables tracking systems and emergency alarms in British prison vans

A cyber attack on telematics services company Microlise has left British prison vans without tracking systems and emergency alarms. The incident has not yet led to escape attempts, but it endangers the safety of transporting prisoners.

A cyber attack on telematics company Microlise last week caused major problems for British prison vans, which temporarily left critical functions such as tracking, emergency signals and navigation. Microlise, which reported the attack on the London Stock Exchange, said services would be fully restored by the end of next week. Microlise’s clients include Serco, which is engaged in escorting prisoners under a contract with the British Ministry of Justice. Serco told staff about the security breach, but according to the Financial Times it did not have a significant impact on their work.

This incident illustrates the danger posed by attacks on critical service providers. The UK government is currently running a pilot project to strengthen supply chain security through Cyber ​​Essentials certification. These requirements will be introduced for critical sectors and government contractors as part of new legislation expected to be passed by parliament next year.