National Gallery of Canada Ransomware Attack Update

The National Gallery of Canada is still working on recovering full functionality in the wake of a ransomware attack it suffered three weeks ago.

“We have begun a gradual return to the office,” director of communications Douglas Chow told Artnet News. “Progress and connectivity by department continues, most recently online systems for ticketing, membership, and the boutique are now operational.”

Investigation Underway

The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security and third-party cybersecurity experts are currently carrying out a forensic investigation.

Impact of the Attack

Museum staff first detected the attack following an interruption to its IT systems on April 23rd, reportedly losing some “operational information.” It has stressed that payments systems were not affected and no private information had been stolen.

“We have taken this incident very seriously,” said interim director and CEO Angela Cassie. “Our core focus was on protecting personal or sensitive information, and the safe operation of the gallery.”

The museum informed membership applicants about the attack on May 9th.