Seattle Airport Cyberattack: Unpacking the $5.7M Ransom Demand
Cyberattack Unfolds at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
On September 16, 2024, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport experienced a major cyberattack, with hackers demanding a ransom of 100 bitcoin (approximately $5,780,000). The Port of Seattle, responsible for managing the airport, has taken a firm stand by refusing to pay the ransom, as stated by Lance Lyttle, Aviation Managing Director at SEA Airport during a Senate hearing.
Details of the Cyberattack
- Attackers stole 3TB of databases, including employee logins and passwords.
- Critical emergency services applications were also compromised in the breach.
- The hackers posted the airport's name on their leak site, signaling the breach.
The incident emphasizes the ongoing challenges in cybersecurity for critical infrastructure sectors, as criminals exploit vulnerabilities to achieve financial gain.
Reactions and Responses
During the US Senate hearing, Lyttle highlighted the importance of maintaining the Port's values by refusing to engage with criminal organizations. Currently, investigations are ongoing as the Port reviews the files that were compromised in the attack.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.