The website of K-Electric, the pioneering power distribution company in Karachi, fell prey to a ransomware cyber-attack on Monday. Following a major hiccup in the company’s system, it was not able to issue electricity bills to its consumers in different regions as it billing system became non-functional after the attack. A spokesperson for K-Electric revealed that a complaint had been filed with the FIA about the incident. The unidentified people hacked the computers of K-Electric’s Information Technology Department, affecting KE’s Windows computers and backups, while also encrypting the data. K-Electric officials were then contacted by the unidentified hackers through the dark web, reported ARY News.
The hackers have demanded a ransom money for returning the data to the power distribution company. In this regard, the spokesperson of K-Electric added that due to technical issues, consumers may face duplicate bills and may find it difficult to access the KE Live app. The spokesperson noted that 118 call center services are available 24 hours a day for emergency and technical complaints.
The ransomware attackers on a Darkweb payment page are demanding $3,850,000 ransom payment, and if the ransom is not paid within another seven days, it will increase to $7.7 million. Earlier on September 7, Karachi Electric’s (KE) internal and communication with banks had been suspended after a cyber-attack on its Information Technology (IT) system. As per details, cyber-attack over KE’s IT department had obstructed internal communication and links with banks, causing problems for the city’s sole electric supplier. It has also been reported that the hackers have demanded payment in bitcoins to release the site. K-Electric recently witnessed a change in management when Shan Ashary was appointed as its new chairman. “The K-Electric is pleased to announce the appointment of Shan A Ashary as its new Chairman of the Board effective 7th September 2020,” read a statement issued by the company.
