Albania's Institute of Statistics Hit by 'Sophisticated Cyberattack'

Albania's Institute of Statistics (INSTAT) disclosed on Thursday that it fell victim to a sophisticated cyberattack that impacted some of its systems.

According to the Associated Press, the institute, responsible for collecting and disseminating statistical data, immediately closed internet links and activated emergency protocols to safeguard its data. While only certain systems were affected, those related to a recent census remained unharmed.

"INSTAT informs the public opinion that on January 31, 2024, its computer systems have been the subject of a sophisticated cyber attack. INSTAT has reacted quickly and professionally to prevent and minimize the possible damage from the attack," the institute announced.

Response of INSTAT to the Cyberattack

According to a statement posted on INSTAT's Facebook page, the institute is collaborating with authorities to ascertain the origin and motives behind the cyberattack. Its focus includes restoring normal operations and reinforcing cybersecurity measures to prevent future incidents.

"INSTAT has immediately disconnected the Internet connections and activated the protocols emergency to ensure protection of data and statistical information. Currently, from the first exams conducted by IT experts, some of the INSTAT systems have been affected by the attack," the institute said in its translated statement.

"INSTAT's immediate response includes the help of national cybersecurity experts, who are pooling their resources to carry out an investigation of the details on this offense," it added.

Albania's December Cyberattack

This recent incident follows a cyberattack in December that targeted Albania's Parliament website. The Parliament confirmed a cyberattack and noted that hackers attempted unauthorized access to its data system, temporarily suspending services.

The attack did not compromise the data, and experts were investigating potential consequences. Local media reports indicated that a telecommunications provider and an airline company also fell victim to cyberattacks simultaneously.

Although the alleged culprits were identified as Homeland Justice, Iranian-based hackers, independent verification of this assertion is currently unavailable.

Albania also encountered a cyberattack in July 2022 that the government and multinational tech companies blamed on the Iranian Foreign Ministry.

This offensive was perceived as a response to Albania offering refuge to individuals associated with the Iranian opposition group Mujahedeen-e-Khalq (MEK). Consequently, diplomatic ties between Albania and Iran were severed in two months.

Following the July 2022 cyberattack, the Iranian Foreign Ministry denied any involvement, emphasizing that Iran had been subject to cyberattacks originating from MEK.

In a show of solidarity, the United States, NATO, and the European Union stood by NATO member Albania throughout the diplomatic discord.