Key facts
- Berlin's state government is reviewing stolen data published by a ransomware group.
- The cyberattack targeted two government departments.
- The data was released by the Rhysida group after an auction failed.
- A central crisis unit will oversee the data review and inform affected parties.
- Berlin has stated it will not submit to extortion.
Berlin's state government is intensely reviewing a large trove of stolen data published by a ransomware group, as investigators work to assess the impact of a cyberattack that targeted two government departments. The data was released by the Rhysida group on Friday after an auction for 5.79 terabytes of information, which started at 30 bitcoin, concluded without a sale. Berlin had previously stated it would not submit to extortion. A central crisis unit has been established to oversee the review, verification, and assessment of the leaked data, and to support efforts to inform affected citizens and businesses. Authorities described the incident as an "extremely serious crime" and an attack on the state itself, urging the public not to spread unverified claims on social media. Affected individuals will be informed by relevant authorities in accordance with German and European data protection rules. The cyberattack comes less than a month before the city-state holds elections on September 20.