NUKU’ALOFA (TALANOAOTONGA) — A cyberattack on Tonga’s National Health Information System (NHIS) has entered its second week, crippling access to vital health records.
Police Minister Dr. Paula Piukala revealed at a press conference Thursday that the attackers are demanding a US$1 million ransom.
“The database is encrypted, denying access to it,” he said, noting that it’s unlikely Tonga will pay the ransom.
“Paying ransom is not advised globally, so it will not be paid,” he said.
Deputy Prime Minister Dr Taniela Fusimalohi confirmed the seriousness of the breach.
“This incident raises questions about the level of Tonga’s cyber security,” he said.
Dr Fusimalohi added that a government delegation will travel to Australia to further discuss cybersecurity cooperation.
The Australian Government deployed a cybersecurity response team last week, which remains in Tonga assisting with the crisis. The team is expected to complete its work by the end of this week.
Piukala admitted flaws in Tonga’s cyber infrastructure. “Security control architecture wasn’t done properly, and Australia is helping with that,” he said.
Piukala is confident that the Australian cyber experts will be recover the system without paying the ransom.
The Cabinet received its fifth situation report Thursday, as efforts to restore the system continue…. PACNEWS