Ransomware at Eurofins?
Eurofins, a leading analytical testing group specializing in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, environmental, and medical biology sectors, fell victim to a ransomware attack in early June 2019.
This type of ransomware cyberattack involves locking an organization’s data and then demanding a ransom in exchange for its release.
The group does not specify whether it paid the ransom.
In any case, we strongly advise against paying if you fall victim to this type of attack. After all, there is no guarantee that you will get your data back! In fact, it is not uncommon for your bank details to be compromised as well.
The bioanalysis company downplayed the impact of the attack without, however, providing any solid security assurances.
What about the data from Eurofins?
This company holds data on nearly all Europeans. Eurofins analyzes pharmaceutical and cosmetic products, but also prepares medical reports based on health examinations.
It is important to note that the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) appliesto any organization established within the EuropeanUnion.
Eurofins announced that it quickly repelled the attack. However, the group acknowledges that it has no evidence as to whether data was transferred to an unknown server. (Source: BFM RMC Bourdin Direct).
What are the losses associated with ransomware?
This ransomware, which has affected Eurofins, caused its IT systems to shut down. As a result, half-year profits fell by 35%.
Gilles Martin, the group’s CEO, said: “Unfortunately, several of the group’s laboratories were hit by a severe cyberattack on June 2, 2019, which significantly impacted some of Eurofins’ operations in June, temporarily hampering their financial performance.”
Eurofins is therefore hoping to receive compensation from its insurance providers. It hopes this will help offset the financial losses resulting from the attack.
The impact on its revenue is currently estimated at 62 million euros.
It took more than two weeks for most operations at the affected laboratories to return to normal.
