Dutch Public Prosecution Service suspends internet access over security threat

The Dutch Public Prosecution Service (Openbaar Ministerie, OM) was cut off from the internet on Friday afternoon due to a potential security incident involving its IT systems. A spokesperson confirmed the measure following reports by NRC, stating that the OM is treating the situation seriously. "A crisis management team is swiftly investigating the matter."

The issue arose in the afternoon, prompting the OM to inform other organizations, including the Ministry of Justice and Security, which will be kept updated on the findings of the investigation. However, officials have not disclosed the exact nature of the incident or its potential impact on the OM’s operations. It remains unclear whether the disruption was caused by a cyberattack or another type of security breach.

The OM has been allegedly struggling with IT problems for some time, which have at times prevented prosecutors from sending or receiving emails or accessing digitized case files. These nationwide issues have reportedly hindered judicial processes, but it is not yet known whether the latest security concerns are linked to the previous IT failures.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice and Security stated that there are no indications of similar IT problems affecting other organizations within the ministry. The OM continues to investigate the situation while maintaining operational security measures.