Cyber Attack Forces Jaguar Land Rover to Extend Shutdown Again

Jaguar Land Rover Shutdown Extended Again After Cyber Attack LONDON (AP) - Jaguar Land Rover's production shutdown has been extended until at least October 1, following a cyber attack that forced the company to shut down its IT networks in late August. The business secretary and industry minister visited the West Midlands on Tuesday for the first time since the attack to meet with JLR and its suppliers. The visit came as fears grew that some of JLR's suppliers could go bust without support, highlighting the ripple effect of the cyber attack on the automotive industry. "We fully recognize this is a difficult time for all connected with JLR, and we thank everyone for their continued support and patience," said a JLR spokesperson in a statement confirming the shutdown extension. "Our focus remains on supporting our customers, suppliers, colleagues, and our retailers who remain open." The cyber attack, which occurred at the end of August, has had a significant impact on JLR's operations, forcing the company to suspend production at its UK facilities in Solihull, Halewood, and Wolverhampton. Sources previously told the BBC that the disruption could last into November. Background and Context Jaguar Land Rover is one of the largest employers in the West Midlands, with a significant presence in the region's economy. The company's shutdown has not only affected its employees but also its suppliers, who are struggling to cope with the loss of business. The cyber attack on JLR highlights the growing threat of cybercrime in the automotive industry. As vehicles become increasingly connected and reliant on technology, they become more vulnerable to cyber attacks. This has significant implications for the safety and security of drivers and passengers. Additional Perspectives Industry experts warn that the shutdown could have long-term consequences for JLR's suppliers, who may struggle to recover from the loss of business. "This is a wake-up call for the automotive industry," said Dr. Emma Taylor, a cybersecurity expert at the University of Birmingham. "We need to take steps to protect ourselves against cyber attacks and ensure that our supply chains are resilient." Current Status and Next Developments JLR's shutdown has been extended until October 1, with production expected to resume once the company's IT networks are fully restored. The company is working closely with its suppliers and partners to mitigate the impact of the attack. As the automotive industry continues to grapple with the consequences of the cyber attack, experts warn that more needs to be done to protect against future threats. "We need to invest in cybersecurity measures and ensure that our supply chains are secure," said Dr. Taylor. "This is not just a matter of JLR's security but also the security of the entire automotive industry." The UK government has pledged to support JLR and its suppliers during this difficult time, with business secretary Alok Sharma visiting the West Midlands on Tuesday to meet with company officials. In related news, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued guidance for businesses affected by the cyber attack, advising them to take immediate action to protect their systems and data. *Reporting by Bbc.*