Schlatter Group, a Swiss manufacturing leader with over a century of history, is grappling with a significant ransomware attack that has crippled its IT network. The company, renowned for its plant engineering and welding expertise, has confirmed the incident, describing it as a “criminal cyberattack using malware.”
Following the attack on Friday, Schlatter Group promptly implemented security measures and engaged law enforcement. Currently, the company is unable to access its email system and has advised customers to reach out via phone for any urgent matters. The ongoing investigation is focused on determining if any data has been compromised.
The company suspects that the attack was carried out by professionals, as the perpetrators are attempting to blackmail Schlatter Group. ICT experts are working diligently to restore all systems and resume normal operations as quickly as possible.
As of Monday afternoon, no ransomware group or hacking organization has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Schlatter Group plays a crucial role in automating production systems and provides plant engineering services for resistance welding systems, as well as weaving and finishing equipment for producing paper machine clothing, wire fabrics, and wire mesh. Last fiscal year, the company reported nearly $150 million in sales.
Swiss authorities have noted a rise in cyberattacks in recent months, coinciding with heightened geopolitical tensions, including criticism directed at Switzerland’s president from Russian media. This attack follows a similar incident last year when Swiss technology conglomerate ABB was targeted by a ransomware group with strong Russian connections.
