After cyber attack ransom payment to hacker group was lawful

SRF NewsState / PublicCenter7 hr. ago

In the fall of 2025, a subsidiary of Ruag, a state-owned Swiss defense conglomerate, was targeted by a cyberattack carried out by the hacker group Akira. The hackers accessed data from the subsidiary's systems in Virginia and threatened to publish the information on the dark web unless a ransom was paid. Despite federal recommendations against paying ransoms, Ruag proceeded with the payment. According to the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports (VBS), Ruag acted within legal boundaries under US law as a private corporation. However, the VBS noted that Ruag could have provided more coordinated information to the federal authorities, considering potential political and reputational impacts. As part of improving cybersecurity measures, Ruag plans to review its protection strategies alongside the Federal Office for Cybersecurity. Ruag's board chairman stated the ransom amount was small but did not disclose the exact figure.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the situation factually, citing the VBS investigation and quoting Ruag's board chairman. It does not exhibit overtly biased language or one-sided sourcing. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the legal and procedural aspects rather than taking a stance on whether paying the

Tages-AnzeigerIndependentCenter8 hr. ago

The Swiss Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports (VBS) has concluded that the ransom payment made by Ruag, a defense contractor, following a cyberattack was legally justified and within the company’s responsibility. However, the VBS expressed clear criticism regarding the incident, indicating concerns over the decision-making process or potential vulnerabilities that led to the attack. The report highlights the legal permissibility of the payment but underscores areas where improvements could be made to prevent such incidents in the future. This assessment comes amid growing concerns about cybersecurity threats targeting critical infrastructure and defense-related companies.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the VBS's conclusion that the ransom payment was legally justified and notes their criticism without taking a clear ideological stance. It does not favor one side over another and provides a balanced view of the situation.