Cyberattack. Photo: Shutterstock Liechtenstein has launched an emergency response after a cyberattack targeted the country's Register of Beneficial Owners, exposing copies of data linked to around 31,000 legal entities.
The government confirmed today, August 3, 2026, that the attack took place during the night of July 29 to July 30, when unknown attackers gained unauthorized digital access to the Register of Beneficial Owners, known as the VwbP. Irregularities were detected on July 30 by the Office of Justice, prompting the Office of Information Technology to immediately secure the system, take it offline, and begin a full investigation.
Preliminary findings confirmed that the attackers successfully copied data relating to approximately 31,000 legal entities, including companies, foundations, and trusts. Officials stressed that, based on current evidence, there are no signs that information stored in the register was altered or deleted. However, the online register has been temporarily taken offline and is unavailable through the government's website while investigations continue.
The seriousness of the incident prompted the Liechtenstein government to establish a dedicated crisis unit over the weekend. The task force is led by Prime Minister Brigitte Haas and Minister of Justice Emanuel Schädler, with its primary objectives focused on determining how the breach occurred, informing affected parties, and implementing measures to strengthen security.
Authorities also confirmed that the incident qualifies as a personal data breach under the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation. Officials are working to notify affected individuals and organizations as quickly as possible in accordance with GDPR requirements. A dedicated information service has also been established to respond to questions from those impacted by the breach.
The Register of Beneficial Owners was introduced in 2021 as part of Liechtenstein's implementation of the European Union's Fifth Anti Money Laundering Directive. The database is designed to improve transparency by identifying the individuals who ultimately own or control legal entities operating within the country. The register plays an important role in preventing money laundering and terrorist financing.