Dyfed-Powys Police confirms cyber attack

Dyfed-Powys Police has revealed that they were the target of a cyber-attack this month that disrupted non-emergency systems.

The force said that it happened on September 14 and since the incident was identified, an investigation has been ongoing into the circumstances surrounding it, with support from cyber-security specialists.

They explained that their systems have been subject to precautionary measures while specialist teams investigate the incident and work to restore services safely.

“Dyfed Powys Police remains fully operational, and our response to emergency incidents has not been affected,” a spokesperson said this morning.

“Telephone (999 and 101) services have not been affected and whilst online and email contact were unavailable for a period, these have now been restored.”

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has been notified but the force admitted that they said there was no evidence that the public’s personal data has been accessed or compromised as a result of this attack.

“We are, however, continuing to investigate whether any information relating to our staff may have been accessed or compromised, and are taking all appropriate steps to protect that information, and will provide appropriate advice to colleagues if required,” the spokesperson said.

The investigation remains ongoing and is being managed by Tarian through their regional cyber-crime unit, with force systems being closely monitored.

“We understand the potential concern this may cause and want to reassure the public that we have and will continue to take all necessary steps to protect our information and maintain the security of our systems.”