The natural gas transmission system operator (DESFA) announced that part of its IT infrastructure became a victim of a cyber attack by cybercriminals who tried to gain illegal access to electronic files. As a result, there is an impact on the availability of certain systems and possible leakage of files and data. 

However, as noted in the announcement, DESFA managed to ensure and continue the operation of the National Natural Gas System (NSGS) in a safe and reliable manner. 

It is also underlined that the management of DESFA continues to operate smoothly and DESFA continues to supply natural gas to all entry and exit points of the country safely and adequately.

In detail, the announcement states the following:

“Part of DESFA’s IT infrastructure became a victim of a cyber attack by cybercriminals who tried to gain illegal access to electronic files. As a result, there is an impact on the availability of certain systems and possible leakage of files and data.

We managed to ensure and continue the operation of the National Natural Gas System (NSGS) in a safe and reliable manner. The management of DESFA continues to operate smoothly and DESFA continues to supply natural gas to all entry and exit points of the country safely and adequately.

We are investigating the root causes of the attack and have mobilized teams of technical and specialist experts to assist us in this matter and in getting the systems back up and running as soon as possible. 

To protect our customers and partners, we have proactively disabled most of our IT services. We are gradually restoring our information and operating systems.

We have already informed all the competent authorities and organizations and we continue to work closely with the Ministry of Digital Governance, the Data Protection Authority, the Cyber Crime Prosecution of the Hellenic Police, the Hellenic National Defence General Staff (HNDGS), the Ministry of the Environment & Energy and the Energy Regulatory Authority to resolve the issue and minimize any potential impact.

DESFA remains unwavering in its position not to negotiate with cybercriminals.”

Also read: Cyber ​​attack on Hellenic Post’s information systems