Ransomware hackers blocked Swiss farmer Vital Bircher’s cow health and data reception, leading to the death of one animal, Agrarheute reported on August 6.
Bircher initially attributed the disruption of the data flow from the barn to interruptions in radio communications. The milking system manufacturer later reported the hack.
The hackers demanded $10,000 (850,000 rubles) for decrypting the data. The farmer was in no hurry to comply with the extortionists’ demands. The milking robot worked without a computer or network connection.
The cyber attack ended tragically for one cow. The system provided vital data about the cows, which was especially important for pregnant females. One cow’s calf died in the womb. Because the computer was not working, Bircher did not notice the emergency in time.
Attempts to save the cow began late. As a result, it had to be put down. The damage caused by the attack is estimated at 6,400 euros (595,000 rubles). Most of it comes from veterinary expenses and the purchase of a new computer. The hackers left empty-handed.
Source: Rossa Primavera
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