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The public needs light to be shed on cyberattack situation – a statement from Shadow Minister for National Security, the Hon. Michael Dunkley, JP, MP

By October 5, 2023October 6th, 2023No Comments

It has been two weeks since Premier Burt has held a press conference to discuss the cyberattack on the Government’s IT infrastructure. Members of the public are asking questions daily…what is the lastest? When will Government systems return to fully functional? Has our personal information been compromised?

We are no clearer than we were when Premier Burt left us to attend a party, under the guise of business.

While we understand and appreciate the gravity of the situation, and the need to be careful about what is released publicly pending a criminal investigation, the public has a right to know more than has been released by the Premier and colleagues.

Hacks occur across the world on a daily basis, but whether it’s a government or a corporate business, those affected by the hack are regularly kept informed. Why must Bermuda be an exception to the rule.

The people have a right to know what is being done to fix the matter and if their information remains private. The Premier has handled this matter poorly—and it’s time for that to change.

There are so many questions. How was this able to happen? Who is responsible? Is or was there a ransom involved? How can the public be assured that this won’t happen again any time soon? Will funds be allotted to enhance and continually protect the Government’s IT infrastructure? Will Ministers become compliant with training requirements in a timely manner going forward?

The public deserves more than a thinly veiled press statement and evasive answers; the One Bermuda Alliance supports the call for an independent inquiry.