Hackers Delete Data Stolen in Nursery Cyber-Attack After Backlash
In a sudden reversal, hackers who attempted to extort a nursery chain by posting stolen images and data about children on the darknet have removed the posts and claim to have deleted the information. The move comes after public revulsion at their attack forced the criminals to backtrack.
According to sources, the hackers began posting profiles of the children to their website last Thursday, adding another 10 children days later and vowing to continue until Kido Schools paid a ransom in Bitcoin. The criminals also contacted parents directly with threatening phone calls whilst trying to get their ransom paid.
The attack sparked widespread outrage among parents, educators, and law enforcement officials, who condemned the hackers' actions as unacceptable. "This is a despicable act that has caused immense distress to families," said a spokesperson for Kido Schools. "We are grateful that the hackers have removed the posts, but we will continue to work with authorities to ensure those responsible are brought to justice."
The hackers initially blurred the images of the children but kept the data up before finally removing both the images and data from their website. According to cybersecurity experts, this sudden change in behavior is unusual for hackers who typically refuse to back down after launching an attack.
"This is a rare example of hackers being forced to retreat due to public pressure," said Dr. Emma Taylor, a leading expert on cybercrime. "It highlights the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement agencies in combating online threats."
The incident has raised concerns about the vulnerability of nursery schools to cyber-attacks and the need for increased security measures to protect sensitive information. Kido Schools has assured parents that they are taking steps to enhance their cybersecurity systems and prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the investigation continues, authorities have urged anyone with information about the hackers' identities or activities to come forward. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of online extortion and the importance of protecting sensitive information from falling into the wrong hands.
In a statement, Kido Schools thanked parents for their support and cooperation during this difficult time. "We are committed to providing a safe and secure environment for our children, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our systems are protected against future threats," the spokesperson said.
The incident is still under investigation, but authorities have confirmed that they are working closely with international partners to track down the hackers and bring them to justice.
This story was compiled from reports by BBC Technology and BBC Business.
