Dutch FA admits paying ransom to cyber criminals after players’ data is hacked
DUTCH footie chiefs have admitted paying a sensational ransom to hackers after being subjected to a data breach.
Cyber crooks hacked the KNVB’s database and threatened to make all their files public unless they bowed down to their demands.
The Royal Dutch Football Association enlisted the help of experts to try and discover the source of the hack but were unable to.
And they begrudgingly gave in to the hackers’ demands and paid them their ransom.
A KNVB statement read: “In April 2023, it was announced that the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) had been hit by a cyber intrusion.
“Criminals claimed to have captured data and published it unless we paid a ransom. Expert research could not determine which data had actually been stolen or accessed.
“This presented us with a dilemma without an option that felt comfortable to us.
“Possibly captured files contain personal data, the distribution of which could have consequences for the privacy of those involved.
“For the KNVB, preventing such a spread ultimately weighs more heavily than the principle of not allowing ourselves to be extorted.
“That is why agreements were made under expert guidance about non-publication and deletion of data.
The KNVB does not want to fall back completely on promises made by criminals. We therefore inform those involved whose data may have been stolen or accessed.
“This enables them to remain extra alert to any signals of misuse of their data.
“Those involved can consult current information and answers to frequently asked questions about this incident via this website.
“The question and answer section will be updated where necessary in the near future.
“It is therefore possible that the question you asked via e-mail has now been answered on this website. Therefore, please consult this website regularly.
“The KNVB deeply regrets this incident and apologizes to all involved for any inconvenience they may experience as a result.”
Data leak aside, things are going much better for the KNVB on the pitch.
The Netherlands are sitting pretty in second place in the Euro 2024 qualifying group, which is topped by France.
Ronald Koeman‘s troops are joint second with Greece, who they beat 3-0 last Thursday.
The Oranje will be back in action on October 13, welcoming France to the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam.