A major hacking operation of national police databases is causing a stir in the Netherlands: according to the police management, 65,000 police personnel are affected. Names, professional and private telephone numbers, exact functions, email addresses, contacts, information on investigations: this data would have been stolen using Outlook identifiers stolen from one of the police officers, now invited by his superiors to “maximum vigilance”. Initially, a spokesperson reported that only professional information had been stolen.
According to the Minister of Justice, David van Weel, who informed the deputies of the Second Chamber on September 27, a “unidentified state actor” would be behind the operation. On Wednesday, Henk Geveke, head of technology and innovation at the national police headquarters, confirmed on LinkedIn that “The hack was most likely the work of another country – or by authors acting on behalf of another country.”.
Doubts remain as to whether it was also information about investigators who were acting undercover or personnel who guarantee the protection of political figures and magistrates. “We are examining the risks posed by the information leak and the destination of this information,” explained the minister, however refusing to provide more details “in the interest of research.” For his part, the former head of the intelligence and counterterrorism services, Prime Minister Dick Schoof, simply clarified that “No one minimizes the risk faced by the police”.
The opposition is prevented from questioning the government
The Dutch Police Union, the main defense organization for personnel, analyzes “the nightmare” of its members and highlights the shortcomings of the current data protection system. The problem is such that a toll-free number was opened to collect testimonies from agents who feared for their safety and that of their families. Many are wondering about the exact extent of the leaks and the possible use of the information obtained. Dozens of officials have already expressed their doubts, some of them mentioning their possible resignation. “I imagine the police are concerned about the possible consequences of this hack.” reacted Mr. Van Weel, who assured on Wednesday that “the police (…) “He is doing everything in his power to protect police officers and prevent further harm.”
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