ICC says September cyberattack was spying attempt

Five weeks ago, the International Criminal Court detected a serious cyber security incident, thanks to the alert mechanism provided by its monitoring system and has made various and serious efforts to address this attack, Report informs citing the Court's statement.

According to the Court, as soon as the incident was confirmed, steps were taken to mitigate its effects by initiating an immediate incident response with the support of the Netherlands, the Host State, and external cyber security experts. This included forensic analysis of the incident, its causes and its impact, and initial mitigating measures.

"The evidence available thus far indicates a targeted and sophisticated attack with the objective of espionage. The attack can therefore be interpreted as a serious attempt to undermine the Court’s mandate," the Court said.

With the information currently available it is not presently possible for the Court to confirm who is responsible for the attack, the Court said.

"The Dutch law enforcement authorities are currently conducting a criminal investigation," the Court said.

"Based on the forensic analysis carried out, the Court has already taken and will continue to take all necessary steps to address any compromise to data belonging to individuals, organisations and States," it noted.

In addition, the Court added that it is also accelerating a number of existing initiatives aimed at enhancing digital security.

"Should evidence be found that specific data entrusted to the Court has been compromised, those affected would be contacted immediately and directly by the Court," the Court said.