Major Cyber Attack Exposes Personal Data of 165,000 Gothenburg Employees

A significant data breach has occurred following a cyber attack on the IT provider Miljödata, affecting approximately 165,000 current and former city employees in Gothenburg. This incident has raised serious concerns as sensitive personal and health-related information was leaked, including names, addresses, email addresses, phone numbers, ages, genders, personal identification numbers, and sick leave records.

The attack, which took place on August 23, has implications beyond Gothenburg, as it is reported that about 80% of Sweden's municipalities rely on Miljödata for crucial employment-related services, including the management of rehabilitation, work-related injuries, and sick leave. The municipal Intraservice department, led by Kristina Högström, has indicated that the extent of the leak is more severe than initially understood. Högström stated, "We take this very seriously and now know that Gothenburg city is affected to a much greater extent than previously known."

The breach has resulted in Miljödata being allegedly extorted for 1.5 bitcoin, amounting to nearly 1.6 million SEK. Local officials have confirmed the situation is critical, as the leaked data contains highly sensitive information that could put many individuals at risk.

This data breach affects municipal operations significantly, as Gothenburg has handled such information since 2008, relating to employee health and safety. Authorities have reported the incident to the police as they investigate the breach and work to mitigate any potential harm to those affected.