welt.de
Cyberattack Causes Delays at Berlin Airport
A cyberattack on a passenger processing system provider Friday evening caused significant delays at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) and other European airports, impacting check-in and boarding processes.
- What are the potential long-term implications of this cyberattack for airport security and operations?
- This incident highlights the vulnerability of European airports to cyberattacks targeting shared system providers. The reliance on such systems necessitates improved cybersecurity measures across the industry to mitigate the risk of widespread operational disruptions and potential future attacks. The incident also underscores the need for contingency plans for manual processes in such scenarios.
- What is the immediate impact of the cyberattack on air travel in Berlin and potentially other European cities?
- The cyberattack on a system provider used at airports across Europe caused significant delays at Berlin's BER airport, impacting check-in and boarding. Passengers experienced extended wait times, and some flights were delayed. The airport itself wasn't directly targeted but indirectly affected due to the disruption.
- How widespread is the impact of this cyberattack beyond Berlin Airport, and what is the nature of the disruption?
- The system provider is used at multiple European airports. Brussels Airport confirmed being affected, reporting manual check-in and boarding due to the attack, anticipating delays and cancellations. London Heathrow also mentioned delays due to a technical issue with a third-party check-in system provider. Frankfurt and Hamburg airports reported no disruptions.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a relatively neutral account of the cyberattack and its consequences. The focus is on the disruption to airport operations and the efforts to mitigate the issue. While the potential for significant impact is mentioned, the article doesn't sensationalize the event.
Language Bias
The language used is largely factual and avoids emotionally charged terms. Words like "technical problem" and "disruption" are used instead of more alarmist language. The use of direct quotes from official sources maintains neutrality.
Bias by Omission
The article could benefit from including more details about the nature of the cyberattack itself, for example what type of attack it was and whether any data was breached. Information on the identity of the system provider could also add clarity. Further, the article does not specify which airlines and passengers are affected beyond generalities.
Sustainable Development Goals
The cyberattack on a system provider used by multiple European airports, including Berlin's BER airport, caused significant disruptions to passenger processing systems. This directly impacts the efficiency and reliability of airport infrastructure, hindering smooth operations and negatively affecting the industry. The incident highlights vulnerabilities in crucial technological systems supporting the transportation sector, impacting SDG 9's goal of building resilient infrastructure.