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Canada’s largest public library system reported a cyberattack that took down its website, member services pages, and limited access to its digital collections.
The Toronto Public Library provides more than 12 million items across 100 branches to more than 1.2 million members. Saturday afternoon, the company reported that it was experiencing technical difficulties with online services, WiFi in-branch, and printing.
The library confirmed on Sunday that it was dealing with a cybersecurity incident. The library’s website has been replaced by a temporary page containing an explanation of the situation.
Toronto Public Library’s temporary statement on its website (Source)
As a result of the incident, the following services are unavailable: tpl.ca, “your account”, tpl:map passes and digital collections. Public computers and printing services at our branches are also unavailable. Branches are open as scheduled. Wifi is available in library branches, and branch telephone lines are working,
Materials can be borrowed and returned in branches until further notice. As of now, there is no evidence that the personal information of our staff or customers has been compromised. TPL has proactively prepared for cybersecurity issues and promptly initiated measures to mitigate potential impacts.
Toronto Public Library’s statement (Source)
Experts in cybersecurity have been brought in to fix the problem, but officials warn that it “may take several days before all systems are fully restored to normal operations.”
No hacking group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and the organization has not responded to inquiries about whether it was a ransomware incident or whether a ransom would be paid.
Cybersecurity and Daily Life
A cybersecurity lecturer from Toronto acknowledges the importance of cybersecurity in day-to-day life, as he accompanies his daughter to the Toronto Public Library:
Just yesterday, as I accompanied my daughter to the Toronto Public Library (TPL) to borrow some books, we observed that all computer systems were offline, necessitating manual check-outs.
This disruption at TPL was the result of a cybersecurity incident. While many of us, fortunate to have consistent internet access, may overlook the essentiality of institutions like public libraries, it’s pivotal to recognize that a large segment of our city’s population depends heavily on these services for their everyday requirements.
This instance served as a poignant reminder of the critical nature of our profession, underscoring the trust many place in us to maintain their day-to-day operations.
LinkedIn Post (Source)
The City of Toronto Faced a Ransomware Attack Six Months Ago
Only six months ago, the city of Toronto confirmed to Recorded Future News that data had been stolen from its systems by suspected Russia-based ransomware hackers exploiting a flaw in a popular file transfer platform.
If you want to learn more about how ransomware spreads, how to mitigate and how to prevent it, check out our related posts.
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Madalina, a seasoned digital content creator at Heimdal®, blends her passion for cybersecurity with an 8-year background in PR & CSR consultancy. Skilled in making complex cyber topics accessible, she bridges the gap between cyber experts and the wider audience with finesse.
