PNP OEM restarts computer system after alleged breach

By: Faith Argosino – 32 minutes ago

MANILA, Philippines — After shutting down all its data systems due to a reported breach, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said its Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) restarted its computer system and conducted a test as part of its ongoing evaluation.

According to PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo on Monday, the PNP is investigating 15 of its systems, 14 of which are operational, including the OEM system.

READ: PNP Chief Orders All Police Units to Intensify Measures Against Cyber ​​Attacks

“Parin Yung evaluation and validation in progress. But today we put the OEM system in place for a test to make sure it is masusundan,” Fajardo revealed during a press briefing.

(Evaluation and validation are ongoing. But today the OEM system is ready for testing to prevent future threats.)

Last May 21, the PNP temporarily shut down all its systems following reports that OEM data had been breached and that this event had compromised stored personal data.

Fajardo confirmed that there was indeed an attempted breach of OEM's system, but noted that the organization's IT departments are still validating the extent of the breach.

READ: PNP Shuts Down Data Systems Following Breach Threat

She also claimed that the individual behind the threat in FEO's data system is the same person who attempted to hack into PNP's logistics, data, information and management system earlier this month last.

To combat the alleged threat, the PNP official said it conducted an operation, implemented two-factor authentication in all its data systems and used intrusion detection and prevention procedures.