The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in the Philippines has announced the temporary suspension of its online services following a cyber attack that targeted its systems with Medusa ransomware, as confirmed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on Tuesday. While the DMW assured the public that databases containing critical information about overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) remained uncompromised, the agency proactively took its online platforms offline to prevent any further potential breaches.
In a statement released via social media, the DMW explained that online functionalities including the issuance of Overseas Employment Certificates (OECs), OFW passes, and other electronic services are currently unavailable. As a contingency measure, the agency has activated manual processing procedures at its National Office, Regional Offices, One-stop Shops, and Migrant Workers Assistance Centers to ensure minimal disruption for OFWs needing essential documentation for employment abroad.
Collaborating closely with the DICT, the DMW is actively working to restore the affected online systems and enhance cybersecurity protocols to prevent future attacks. Concurrently, efforts are underway in partnership with the Bureau of Immigration to facilitate the smooth departure of OFWs despite the temporary disruption in digital services.
For OFWs requiring information sheets, alternative arrangements have been put in place. They can request these forms via email at infosheet@dmw.gov.ph or directly through the DMW’s official Facebook page, where QR-coded information sheets will be provided upon request.
Acknowledging the inconvenience caused to OFWs and their families, the DMW expressed its commitment to resolving the issue promptly and reiterated its dedication to strengthening cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive information crucial to the Filipino workforce abroad.
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