Liechtenstein says a cyberattack has stolen personal data for about 31,000 people after breaching the register of beneficial owners. A crisis team led by Prime Minister Brigitte Haas and Justice Minister Emanuel Schädler has been convened to coordinate the response and investigation. The register is used to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. Authorities say they are assessing the damage and will notify affected parties.
Cyberattack Exposes Data of 31,000 in Liechtenstein — Beneficial Owners Register Compromised
FILE PHOTO - A computer screen is showing a red alarm. (is associated with: «Cyberattack hits Liechtenstein, with 31,000 records stolen») Lino Mirgeler/dpa
Liechtenstein announced on Sunday that a major cyberattack has stolen personal data for approximately 31,000 people after breaching protections around the country's register of beneficial owners.
What Happened
Authorities said the attackers targeted the register of beneficial owners, a database that records the names and details of the de facto owners of companies, foundations and trusts. The register is maintained to help prevent money laundering and the financing of terrorism.
Government Response
The government convened a crisis team led by Prime Minister Brigitte Haas and Justice Minister Emanuel Schädler to coordinate the response and oversee the investigation. Officials said they are assessing the scope of the breach and working to notify affected individuals and institutions.
Context
Liechtenstein, a tiny alpine principality between Switzerland and Austria, has a population of roughly 41,000 and covers about 160 square kilometres. Measured by GDP per capita, it ranks among the wealthiest countries in the world. Financial and banking services are a major part of the economy; while the country was once associated with strict banking secrecy, banking secrecy for tax matters was abolished in 2017.
Next Steps
The government said an investigation is under way and that authorities will review security measures for sensitive registers. Further details about the attackers and the full impact of the theft have not yet been released.
Key fact: About 31,000 personal records were reportedly stolen from a database used to deter money laundering and terrorist financing.
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