Following an extensive investigation by the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau (GNCCB), three people have been charged this morning, 08/02/2021, with various offences including unauthorised access to computer systems (hacking) and fraud. They are due to appear before Cork District Court later this morning.

Two men and one woman were charged in relation to the hacking the computer system of a company involved in vehicle parking systems. It is alleged their actions led to financial losses for both the relevant council and the business itself.

Detective Chief Superintendent Paul Cleary said today “The Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau is investigating a number of complaints of hacking and data interference. People working from home during Covid lockdown are advised to keep your personal data separate from your work data and to use encryption to protect your information. You should also back up your data regularly and report any suspicious activity or messages.”

Anyone who believes the network or data has been interfered with should contact their local Garda Station who can refer them to GNCCB.

The Garda National Cyber-crime Bureau will be opening a satellite hub in Cork, in the coming weeks. This is in addition to new satellite hubs in Wexford, Galway and Mullingar as part of the GNCCB national expansion plan.

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