Cyberattack cost to the State
Paul Lawless cites the cyberattack's financial fallout, data theft and related fraud, and asks for the total estimated cost to the State. The Tánaiste says he will seek specific figures and points to plans to strengthen cybersecurity and national security structures.
The cyberattack cost this State €100 million. That is expected to grow by a further €600 million. It has been reported in the Irish Independent today that 500 people are suing the State in respect of breaches relating to the attack. An incredible 32,000 people had their data stolen. Following the attack, an international criminal gang set up 57 bank accounts in the names of HSE and Tusla staff and fraudulently claimed PUP Covid payments worth up to €183,000 from this State. During that time-----
Comment on this
In relation to criminal investigations, I caution that the Deputy does not jeopardise anything.
Comment on this
During that time, the national cybersecurity agency had a budget of €5 million. In contrast, the Department of the Taoiseach had a public relations budget of €15 million. What is the total estimated cost of the cyberattack to this State?
Comment on this
I will try to get the Deputy some specific information on the cost of that attack to Ireland from an economic point of view. The issue of cybersecurity is taken extraordinarily seriously. The Deputy will note in the programme for Government our plans to relocate cybersecurity to the heart of the Department of Justice, which, I think, is appropriate, and also for the Government to produce a national security strategy for Ireland within the first six months in office and establish a new national security committee. Cyber threats and cyberattacks are very real and pose very real risks to the country and, indeed, to business in the country. We will take this very seriously.