The National Museum of the Royal Navy in Portsmouth, a key institution housing historic artifacts such as Nelson’s flagship HMS Victory, has been struck by a ransomware cyberattack. The attack occurred on December 9, 2024, and has caused significant disruptions to the museum’s operations. Despite the cyberattack, the museum remains open to visitors, and its collections are still accessible. However, the museum has acknowledged the serious impact the attack has had on its internal systems and workflows.
In response to the cyberattack, the museum has been working diligently with various partners, including its IT service provider, law enforcement agencies, the Royal Navy, and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The collaboration aims to fully understand the origins of the attack and assess its scope, ensuring the museum can recover and protect sensitive information. These efforts are crucial to minimize further damage and prevent future incidents.
The museum has not disclosed any specific details about the extent of data compromised or the ransom demand. However, the ongoing investigation is expected to provide clarity in the coming weeks. The museum’s commitment to securing its systems and safeguarding the public’s access to its treasured collections remains a top priority. Visitors can still enjoy the museum’s exhibits, though some behind-the-scenes operations may be temporarily affected as recovery efforts progress.
This incident highlights the growing vulnerability of cultural institutions to cyber threats. Museums and heritage organizations, often storing valuable historical data and artifacts, are increasingly becoming targets for cybercriminals. The Royal Navy Museum’s response to the attack will serve as a case study for other institutions in managing and recovering from similar cyberattacks, ensuring that the public can continue to enjoy and learn from these cultural treasures despite the challenges posed by modern cyber threats.
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