British Library Suffers Technology Outage After Ransomware Attack

The British Library revealed that the ransomware attack last October is still causing a technology outage that disabled the website and their computer systems for weeks.

British Library Confirms Ransomware Attack

According to the library's announcement, the attack was done by a group known for criminal activity. Moreover, some data containing internal HR information have been leaked but there is still no evidence of a wider user data breach.

The current outage has been affecting the library's website, online systems, and services. Some onsite activities such as the reading rooms and public Wi-Fi are also affected by the attack. While the library is hoping to restore the services in the succeeding weeks, some disruption may persist for a while.

Meanwhile, the library also advised its users to take precautionary measures such as changing their passwords, especially if they also use the same password elsewhere.

Access to British Library Remains Limited

Currently, the library has already enlisted the help of the UK's National Cyber Security Centre, the Metropolitan Police, and cybersecurity specialists. Since October 28, the library's website has been preventing access to the digital catalog.

The British Library is one of the world's biggest libraries with over 170 million items, featuring 13.5 million printed books and e-books, and 60 million newspapers. The website also accumulates around 10 million unique visitors annually, giving access to its extensive digital collection.

For now, the library remains fully operational but has published a list of the services that are only available onsite. Other public events and exhibitions will still push through according to the official website.