The Maui News
A cybersecurity attack on Hawaiian airport system websites was possibly linked to similar incidents across the country by the Russian-based hacker group. “Kill Network”, according to state officials.
Pro-Russian hackers reportedly coordinated a denial-of-service attack that made the websites of some major US airports unreachable early Monday, though officials said flights weren’t affected. the Associated Press reported.
Denial-of-service attacks, while a nuisance, are different from hacking that involves breaking into networks and can cause serious damage, according to the AP.
In Hawaii, the attack targeted systems hosting the landing page for 15 Hawaii airport websites, including Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, according to a press release from the state Department of Defense on Tuesday.
“The State of Hawaii, in cooperation with federal partners, routinely works to prepare for and respond to cybersecurity-related incidents.” Gov. David Ige said. “This attack focused only on the airports public website and had no impact on internal systems, operations or traveler security.”
The Hawaii Office of Homeland Security is supporting the response efforts of the Office of Business Technology Services following the attack, according to the press release. In 2021, the two offices established the state’s first cyber incident and cyber disruption response plans.
“We are in close contact with our federal partners at the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation regarding the situation,” said Homeland Security Office Administrator Frank Pace. “Events like this highlight the importance of all organizations, public and private, remaining vigilant for cyber threats and implementing recommended security measures.”
