The UK has condemned the Iranian state for a cyber attack against NATO member Albania’s government that destroyed data and disrupted essential government services, including paying utilities, booking medical appointments and enrolling schoolchildren.
The websites of the Albanian Parliament and the Prime Minister’s office, as well as ‘e-Albania’, a portal that Albanians use to access a number of public services, were attacked and subject to a shut down. The attackers also leaked Albanian government data, including details of emails from the Prime Minister and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The UK's new Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:
"Iran’s reckless actions showed a blatant disregard for the Albanian people, severely restricting their ability to access essential public services.
The UK is supporting our valuable partner and NATO ally. We join Albania and other allies in exposing Iran’s unacceptable actions."