WestJet investigating possible cyberattack – make sure your data is safe

• WestJet says it is experiencing a cyber-incident
• Airline confirms it is addressing the issue, but disruptions are possible
• No one assumed responsibility yet

WestJet has apparently suffered a cyberattack which has disrupted some of its services, including impacting the airline’s website and mobile app.

The company confirmed the news in a security advisory posted on its website, noting, “WestJet is aware of a cybersecurity incident involving internal systems and the WestJet app, which has restricted access for several users.”

“We have activated specialized internal teams in cooperation with law enforcement and Transport Canada to investigate the matter and limit impacts.”

Operations stable

The company did not share any other additional details – so we don’t know who the threat actors are, when the breach actually took place, how it happened, or what its goal was.

No one has assumed responsibility for the attack as of press time.

In an update published on June 15, the airline said some guests may “temporarily encounter intermittent interruptions or errors while using the WestJet app and/or WestJet.com,” adding that it is working on resolving the issues.

“Our operations remain safe and stable and are not impacted by the situation. WestJet is grateful to our guests, our people and our partners for their support and patience. Regular updates will continue to be provided as more details can be shared.”

Although not specifically stated, when cyberattacks disrupt networks in this way, and render some services unusable, it usually ends up being a ransomware attack. These attacks encrypt data on key systems, making them inaccessible. At the same time, the attackers exfiltrate key information to use as leverage during the negotiation process.

Companies shut down their systems to prevent further damage, additional encryptions, or file transfer.

WestJet is one of Canada’s biggest airlines, operating around 180 aircraft and serving around 100 destinations in almost 30 countries.

Via BleepingComputer

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