Berlin state network hit by serious cyberattack

Berlin is responding to a serious cyberattack on its state network that was discovered last Friday. As a precaution, two Senate departments—the Senate Department for Urban Development, Building and Housing, and the Senate Department for Mobility, Transport, Climate Protection and the Environment—were disconnected from the network to prevent further damage.

Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner stated that the attack was serious and that restoring full functionality to the affected authorities may take several more days. While investigations are ongoing, Wegner emphasized that, according to current knowledge, no sensitive data has been leaked. Chief Digital Officer Florian Hauer described the incident as a significant attack carried out by professionals rather than amateurs, though he noted that the early detection of the breach allowed for rapid countermeasures.

Emergency task forces are working around the clock to resolve the issue. The Senate is coordinating its investigation with the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) and the State Criminal Police Office (LKA). Authorities have confirmed that the attack was a digital intrusion by an individual or group, and they have assured the public that elections have not been compromised.