Cyberscecurity incidents. Photo: Shutterstock The Irish government has condemned a series of bomb threats made against media organisations across Ireland on Friday, November 6, warning that the incidents may be part of a coordinated campaign of disruption targeting several European countries.
In a statement issued on November 6, the government confirmed that Ireland's police force, An Garda Síochána, had been alerted to the threats received by RTÉ, Virgin Media, Newstalk and the Independent, and immediately introduced precautionary security measures in cooperation with the organizations targeted.
Authorities have not yet established who is behind the threats or whether they were made by individuals or as part of a centrally coordinated operation.
However, the government pointed to similar threats that have recently disrupted aviation operations across Europe, saying the latest incidents appear likely to be connected to a broader campaign.
"The threats made this morning against media organizations here are very serious," the government said, emphasizing that the safety and security of those affected remain the immediate priority.
It also condemned hoax threats, noting that they create fear, distress and disruption for people going about their daily lives without serving any legitimate purpose.
An Garda Síochána is working alongside the Irish Defence Forces, cybersecurity authorities and aviation authorities to identify those responsible.
The government also confirmed that Irish police and military officials are maintaining contact with European security counterparts as investigations continue.
Authorities have pledged to make every effort to identify those behind the threats and hold them accountable.
The government added that security agencies had already considered the risk of disruptive threats when preparing for events connected to Ireland's upcoming EU Presidency and are now implementing the relevant security protocols.
While the investigation continues, officials stressed that protecting the public remains the main priority, even if additional security measures result in disruption.