Defense
HomeTeamNS hit by ransomware attack, investigates with authorities
HomeTeamNS reported on Monday (3 March) that some of its servers were affected by a ransomware attack, which was discovered on 25 February. The affected servers contained data belonging to employees and former employees, as well as vehicle details of some members and affiliate members.
SINGAPORE: HomeTeamNS reported on Monday (3 March) that some of its servers were affected by a ransomware attack, which was discovered on 25 February.
The affected servers contained data belonging to employees and former employees, as well as vehicle details of some members and affiliate members.
The non-profit organisation, which serves national servicemen (NSmen) from the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), stated that the compromised servers were immediately disabled and isolated from its IT network.
“At this time, there is no evidence of data extraction, but we are monitoring closely,” HomeTeamNS said in its statement.
Security measures and investigation underway
Following the attack, HomeTeamNS engaged third-party cybersecurity experts to investigate the incident and has been working closely with authorities, including the police and the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore.
The organisation has taken several measures to strengthen its security, including changing passwords for all administrative accounts and enhancing security scans and firewalls.
“As part of our remediation efforts, the passwords of all our administrative accounts have been changed, and security scans and firewalls have been further enhanced to strengthen our network security,” HomeTeamNS stated.
It also emphasised that protecting stakeholders’ personal data remains a top priority and assured members that efforts were underway to investigate and mitigate the breach.
Potential risks and response measures
Ransomware attacks typically involve threat actors encrypting files on servers and demanding ransom in exchange for unlocking them. HomeTeamNS has not disclosed whether any ransom was demanded or paid.
The organisation has contacted affected individuals to assist them in safeguarding against potential phishing attempts or unauthorised transactions.
It has advised them on steps to minimise risks arising from the incident.
HomeTeamNS serves over 260,000 NSmen, providing sports and recreational facilities across four clubhouses, along with food and beverage outlets.
Employees and former employees of Home Team agencies, as well as their family and friends, may also join as members.
