Eni has confirmed that the Libyan company Mellitah Oil and Gas, which it co-owns, has suffered a cyber attack. This attack, attributed to a group named RansomHub, targeted Mellitah Oil and Gas and demanded a $50 million ransom, threatening to release one terabyte of data if the demands were not met. Despite this significant threat, the production and operational activities of Mellitah Oil and Gas have not been impacted, ensuring continuity in their core business functions.
An Eni spokesperson reported to “Agenzia Nova” that the restoration of the compromised IT systems is currently underway. It is important to note that the incident has been contained within the systems of Mellitah Oil and Gas, with no impact on any other business units or divisions of Eni. Eni has declined to comment on any alleged ransom claims and has clarified that they are not engaging in any external communications regarding this matter.
The situation underscores the persistent threat of cyber attacks on critical infrastructure and the importance of robust cybersecurity measures. Eni’s response highlights the effectiveness of their contingency plans, ensuring that their production and operations remain stable while addressing the breach. The incident serves as a reminder of the growing risks in the digital landscape and the need for constant vigilance and preparedness against such threats.