Berlin government network targeted in cyberattack; attackers allegedly demand 30 Bitcoin ransom

According to German newspaper DIE ZEIT, Berlin's administrative data network has been targeted by hackers for over two weeks. The hacker group Rhysida has threatened to make public a large volume of stolen sensitive data if Berlin refuses to pay a ransom of 30 bitcoins (approximately 2 million euros). The allegedly stolen data reportedly includes around 46,000 contracts, over 11,000 confidential documents, nearly 6,000 passwords, 16,000 emails, and 148 IBAN accounts. Citing "investigative strategy reasons," the Berlin state government has declined to disclose the ransom demands and details of the data breach. Governing Mayor Kai Wegner stated that Berlin will not succumb to extortion.