security - The Latremie Post

The Congressional Budget Office was hacked. It says it has implemented new security measures

**Congressional Budget Office Confirms Data Breach, Launches Investigation**

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) announced Thursday that it had been hacked, potentially exposing sensitive government data to malicious actors. The breach raises concerns about the security of an agency that plays a vital role in providing objective, impartial analysis for lawmakers during the budget process.

With a staff of approximately 275 employees, the CBO is responsible for producing cost estimates for nearly every bill approved by a House or Senate committee and often offers analysis earlier at lawmakers’ request.

Caitlin Emma, a CBO spokeswoman, stated in writing that the agency “has identified the security incident, has taken immediate action to contain it, and has implemented additional monitoring and new security controls to further protect the agency’s systems going forward.”

The incident was first reported by The Washington Post, which cited four anonymous sources familiar with the situation. According to the Post, the breach was believed to be the work of a suspected foreign actor. However, the CBO did not officially confirm the origin of the attack.

“The incident is being investigated and work for the Congress continues,” said Emma. “Like other government agencies and private sector entities, CBO occasionally faces threats to its network and continually monitors to address those threats.”

The CBO manages extensive data sources covering a wide range of policy issues, including mass deportation plans from the Trump administration, the implementation of sweeping tariffs on countries around the world, and the massive tax and spending cuts enacted into law this summer.

Further details about the scope of the breach and the potential impact on government operations have not yet been released as the investigation continues.
https://wgntv.com/business/ap-business/ap-the-congressional-budget-office-was-hacked-it-says-it-has-implemented-new-security-measures/

Trump tells Zelenskyy he’s reluctant to sell Ukraine Tomahawk missiles after warning Russia he might

**Trump Signals Hesitation on Selling Tomahawk Missiles to Ukraine Amid White House Talks**

*Washington, D.C.* — President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House on Friday, October 17, 2025, for talks that signaled a shift in U.S. policy regarding the potential sale of long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine.

At the start of their meeting, Zelenskyy proposed a deal in which Ukraine would provide the United States with its advanced drones in exchange for Tomahawk cruise missiles—weaponry Ukrainian officials say is crucial to compelling Russian President Vladimir Putin to seriously engage in peace negotiations.

However, President Trump expressed hesitation about selling the missiles, citing national security concerns. “I have an obligation also to make sure that we’re completely stocked up as a country, because you never know what’s going to happen in war and peace,” Trump said. He added, “We’d much rather have them not need Tomahawks. We’d much rather have the war be over to be honest.”

Following the meeting, Trump called for an immediate cessation of hostilities between Ukraine and Russia. In a Truth Social post, he stated, “Enough blood has been shed, with property lines being defined by War and Guts. They should stop where they are. Let both claim Victory, let History decide!”

Zelenskyy echoed the call for a ceasefire and negotiations but carefully refrained from fully embracing an immediate end to the war. “The president is right we have to stop where we are, and then to speak,” Zelenskyy told reporters.

The two leaders, along with Vice President JD Vance, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and other aides, held a discussion that extended over two hours during a lunch in the White House Cabinet Room—far longer than initially planned.

Zelenskyy congratulated Trump on securing last week’s ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza, noting that Trump now has significant momentum to help end the Russia-Ukraine conflict. “President Trump now has a big chance to finish this war,” Zelenskyy said.

Recent days saw a fluctuating stance from Trump regarding the provision of Tomahawk missiles. While he initially appeared open to supplying Ukraine with the missiles, following his Thursday phone call with Putin, Trump started downplaying the likelihood of their delivery.

During the call, Putin warned that supplying Kyiv with Tomahawks “won’t change the situation on the battlefield, but would cause substantial damage to the relationship between our countries,” according to Yuri Ushakov, Putin’s foreign policy adviser.

The Tomahawk missiles, which have a range of about 995 miles (1,600 kilometers), would enable Ukraine to strike deep into Russian territory targeting military sites, energy infrastructure, and other key assets. Ukrainian officials see the missiles as a critical lever to pressure Putin toward peace talks.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha commented that discussions about the Tomahawks have already had a positive effect by pushing Russia toward negotiations. “The conclusion is that we need to continue with strong steps. Strength can truly create momentum for peace,” Sybiha said on the social media platform X.

This latest White House meeting marks the fourth face-to-face encounter between Trump and Zelenskyy since the former Republican president returned to office in January, and their second meeting in less than a month.

Following his call with Putin, Trump announced plans to meet the Russian president soon in Budapest, Hungary, to further discuss ways to end the war. The two leaders also agreed that their senior aides, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, would convene next week at an unspecified location.

When asked whether Zelenskyy would participate in the proposed Hungary talks, Trump responded that it was “to be determined,” suggesting that a separate, “double meeting” involving both leaders might be the most feasible path to productive negotiations.

“These two leaders do not like each other, and we want to make it comfortable for everybody,” Trump said.

Prior to his recent calls, Trump showed growing frustration with Putin. Last month, he shifted his stance by stating he believes Ukraine could reclaim all its territory lost to Russia—a significant change from his earlier position urging Kyiv to make concessions for peace.

Since launching his 2024 campaign, Trump has promised to end the war swiftly. His peace initiative appeared to gain traction following summits with Putin in Alaska and subsequent meetings with Zelenskyy and European allies in Washington last August. At the time, Trump was confident he was paving the way for direct talks between the two leaders.

However, Putin has yet to express willingness to meet Zelenskyy, and Russia has intensified its military assault on Ukraine in recent weeks.

When asked if he felt Putin may be stringing him along, Trump acknowledged the possibility but expressed confidence in handling the Russian leader. “I’ve been played all my life by the best of them, and I came out pretty well,” he said. “I think I’m pretty good at this stuff.”

—

**About the Photographs**

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy speaks as President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles listen before a lunch in the Cabinet Room of the White House, Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, in Washington. —AP Photo/Alex Brandon

President Donald Trump greets Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House on Friday in Washington. —AP Photo/Alex Brandon

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**Spotlight**

Misty Copeland, the first Black female principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre, continues to break barriers through her nonprofit work, which makes dance more accessible to children of color.
https://www.phillytrib.com/trump-tells-zelenskyy-hes-reluctant-to-sell-ukraine-tomahawk-missiles-after-warning-russia-he-might/article_59770354-d409-44f6-9f2d-3124bd867d58.html

Pakistan: At Least 19 TTP Militants, 11 Soldiers Killed Intelligence Based Operation In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

**Peshawar:** At least 19 militants of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) group were killed in a clash with the Pakistan military in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Orakzai district on Wednesday, October 8. The area borders Afghanistan and has been a hotspot for militant activity.

Meanwhile, 11 Pakistani soldiers lost their lives during the intelligence-based operation targeting terrorists belonging to the group known as “Fitna al-Khawarij.” According to a statement released by the military’s media wing, among the deceased soldiers were a Lieutenant Colonel and a Major.

The military statement confirmed that a sanitisation operation is currently underway to eliminate any remaining terrorists in the area. The names of the fallen soldiers have been disclosed as follows: Lieutenant Colonel Junaid Arif, Major Tayyab Rahat, Naib Subedar Azam Gul, Havildar Adil Hussain, Naik Gul Ameer, Lance Naik Talish Faraz, Lance Naik Sher Khan, Lance Naik Irshad Hussain, Sepoy Tufail, Sepoy Muhammad Zahid, and Sepoy Aqib Ali.

In a related incident on the same day, some reports indicated that 11 Pakistan security personnel were killed in an ambush by the TTP in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Kurram district. Reports stated that a convoy of paramilitary soldiers was initially targeted by bombs, followed by a heavy attack when a large number of terrorists opened fire on the convoy.

The TTP, in a statement to Reuters, confirmed that their fighters carried out the attack on the convoy.

In recent years, Pakistan has experienced a surge in militant attacks, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, after the banned TTP called off its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains the worst-hit region in the country. According to PTI, citing the latest statistics issued by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), the region accounted for nearly 71 percent (638) of the total violence-linked fatalities and over 67 percent (221) of the incidents of violence in the third quarter of 2025.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/breaking-news-11-pakistan-army-soldiers-killed-in-ambush-by-ttp-in-khyber-pakhtunkhwas-kurram-district

Uttar Pradesh Crime: Lucknow Police Bust Inter-State AI-Powered Exam Fraud Gang; 10 Arrested Including Bank Officer Mastermind

**Lucknow Police Bust Inter-State Solver Gang Using AI Tools to Forge Exam IDs**

Lucknow: In a significant crackdown, the Lucknow Police have dismantled an inter-state solver gang that exploited artificial intelligence tools—such as ChatGPT, Mix Grinder, Gemini AI, and Fotor—to create fake IDs and Aadhaar cards. The gang digitally blended the faces of real candidates and hired solvers, facilitating impersonation during examinations.

**IBPS Exam Triggered Investigation**

The operation came to light following a report from the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) about suspicious activity during its October 5 exam. Police detained one candidate who was found impersonating another, which eventually led to the arrest of 10 people. Among those arrested was Anand Kumar, the gang’s mastermind and Assistant Manager at UP Gramin Bank, posted in Khapraura, Sambhal.

**Gang Earnings and Recovery**

According to DCP South Nipun Agarwal, the gang charged ₹5.2 lakh per candidate for their services, out of which ₹2 lakh went directly to Anand Kumar. Authorities recovered laptops, mobile phones, and numerous forged documents from the accused individuals.

**Involvement of Bank Officers and Solvers**

Further investigations revealed that some gang members, including Sudhanshu Kumar, an officer at UCO Bank, along with other candidates preparing for banking exams, exploited their knowledge of exam patterns to perpetrate the fraud. The AI-generated photos were instrumental in creating realistic fake identity cards, enabling solvers to appear in place of genuine candidates at various Lucknow exam centers.

**Absconding Candidates**

The police are currently tracking two absconding candidates associated with the gang—Yogendra Kumar and Akashdeep.

This case highlights the rising threat of technology-enabled fraud in competitive examinations and the urgent need for tighter security measures.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/uttar-pradesh/uttar-pradesh-crime-lucknow-police-bust-inter-state-ai-powered-exam-fraud-gang-10-arrested-including-bank-officer-mastermind

Mumbai-Delhi IndiGo flight receives bomb-threat; emergency declared at Delhi airport

**Mumbai-Delhi IndiGo Flight Receives Bomb Threat; Emergency Declared at Delhi Airport**

*By Chanshimla Varah | Sep 30, 2025, 12:32 PM*

Delhi Airport was placed on high alert early Tuesday morning after a bomb threat was received on an IndiGo flight traveling from Mumbai to Delhi.

The incident involved IndiGo flight 6E 762. Upon receiving the threat, airport authorities immediately implemented heightened security measures to ensure passenger safety. The flight landed at around 7:53 AM, according to data from the flight tracking website Flightradar24.com.

Passengers onboard flight 6E 762 were temporarily held for precautionary screening. Following thorough inspections and security checks, they were cleared to continue their journey.

An IndiGo spokesperson confirmed the bomb threat and stated that the airline promptly informed the relevant authorities. “A security threat was noticed onboard IndiGo flight 6E 762 operating from Mumbai to Delhi on September 30, 2025,” the spokesperson said.

The airline assured full cooperation with officials during security procedures before allowing the aircraft to resume operations.

To minimize inconvenience, IndiGo offered refreshments to passengers and provided regular updates throughout the situation. The spokesperson emphasized, “As always, the safety and security of our customers, crew, and aircraft are our topmost priorities.”

Authorities have confirmed that the situation is now under control, and normal operations at Delhi Airport have resumed.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/bomb-threat-to-mumbai-delhi-flight-emergency-declared-at-delhi-airport/story

Canada lists Bishnoi Gang as terrorist entity

A terrorist listing in Canada grants the federal government the authority to freeze or seize property, vehicles, and money associated with designated groups. It also equips Canadian law enforcement with enhanced tools to prosecute terrorist offences.

The Canadian government has officially designated the Bishnoi gang, led by notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, as a terrorist organization. This move follows the gang’s involvement in murder, shootings, arson, and the spread of terror through extortion and intimidation.

“Acts of violence and terror have no place in Canada, especially those that target specific communities to create a climate of fear and intimidation. That is why Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Public Safety, announced that the Government of Canada has listed the Bishnoi Gang as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code,” stated the Canadian Ministry of Public Safety.

According to the Ministry, the terrorist listing means that any assets owned by the group in Canada—including property, vehicles, and money—can be frozen or seized. It also provides Canadian law enforcement with additional powers to prosecute terrorist offences, including those related to financing, travel, and recruitment.

For example, it is a criminal offence for anyone in Canada, as well as Canadians abroad, to knowingly deal with property owned or controlled by a terrorist group. The Public Safety Ministry further clarified that it is illegal to directly or indirectly provide property if one knows it will be used by or benefit a terrorist organization.

The Criminal Code listing can also be used by immigration and border officials to make decisions on admissibility to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

“The Bishnoi Gang is a transnational criminal organisation operating primarily out of India. They have a presence in Canada and are active in areas with significant diaspora communities. The Bishnoi Gang engages in murder, shootings, and arson, and generates terror through extortion and intimidation. They create a climate of insecurity by targeting communities, their prominent members, businesses, and cultural figures,” the statement added.

The Ministry emphasized that listing the Bishnoi Gang will assist Canadian security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies in combating their crimes and enhancing community safety.

“Every person in Canada has the right to feel safe in their home and community, and as a government, it is our fundamental responsibility to protect them. Specific communities have been targeted for terror, violence, and intimidation by the Bishnoi Gang. Listing this group of criminal terrorists gives us more powerful and effective tools to confront and put a stop to their crimes,” said Gary Anandasangaree, Canadian Minister of Public Safety.

(With inputs from PTI and IANS)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/canada-lists-lawrence-bishnoi-gang-as-terrorist-entity-says-specific-communities-were-targeted-23596385

White House Insider Buck Sexton: “Trump’s Next Move Will Shock the World”

(Note: Thank you for supporting businesses like those presenting a sponsored message below and ordering through the links below, which benefits Gateway Pundit. We appreciate your support!)

By Buck Sexton

I just returned from a private interview at the Biltmore Hotel, where I shared a chilling prediction regarding a major plan currently developing inside the Trump administration.

See, I have had direct access to top-level defense and national security officials—Pete Hegseth, Tulsi Gabbard, Marco Rubio, and others. This is why I was recently invited to a sit-down meeting with President Trump and Vice President Vance inside the West Wing of the White House. What I learned there gave me chills.

That’s why, today, I’ve decided to give a rare interview breaking down something I believe every American needs to hear—especially investors.

It’s not about tariffs, crypto, or the Fed, or anything else you’re hearing ad nauseam from the mainstream press right now. It’s about a radical move I believe Trump is going to make as soon as October 15—one that could shock the world.

Because I believe it could single-handedly reshape the global order, dramatically increase U.S. power, and trigger a massive American market boom the likes of which we haven’t seen in 75 years.

President Trump himself said this is all about one thing: igniting what he calls the most extraordinary boom the world has ever seen.

This is a rare opportunity, folks, and I’m bringing it to you on a silver platter—long before anyone else gets wind of it. Take it while you can.

Because once this story and opportunity hits the mainstream, it could be too late to act.

You deserve this. Get the details here now.
https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/09/white-house-insider-buck-sexton-trumps-next-move-5/

Ryder Cup crowd announcer steps down over expletive-filled Rory McIlroy chant

A crowd announcer at the Ryder Cup has stepped down after leading an expletive-filled chant directed at Rory McIlroy. Heather McMahan urged fans at the first tee to shout, “f*** you Rory” together after players were introduced to the crowd before the start of the afternoon session at Bethpage Black on Saturday.

This incident was one of several unsavoury moments on a fractious and fraught day of action, overshadowed by crowd problems. It set the tone for the kind of treatment McIlroy subsequently received during the event.

McMahan, who was not the main announcer but was entertaining the crowd, has since issued an apology. A statement from the PGA of America, the event organisers, read: “Heather McMahan has extended an apology to Rory McIlroy and Ryder Cup Europe and has stepped down from hosting the first tee of the Ryder Cup.”

European captain Luke Donald accused American fans of crossing the line after his players, most notably McIlroy, were subjected to relentless heckling. Comments and insults were repeatedly aimed at the Northern Irishman as he prepared to play shots.

At one point during the morning session, McIlroy shouted at a fan, and his afternoon match was delayed multiple times as appeals for calm were made, including by his opponent Justin Thomas.

Donald said, “It was loud, it was raucous. What I consider crossing the line is personal insults and making sounds when they are trying to hit on their backswings or very close to when they are trying to go into their routines. That did happen a little bit.”

The PGA of America declined to comment when asked by the PA news agency about reports of further disturbances, including fighting, in the crowd.

Much attention had been focused on the hostile reception Europe was expected to receive from a boisterous, partisan New York crowd. McIlroy and partner Shane Lowry bore the brunt of much of the abuse aimed at the European team, repeatedly clashing with fans on their way to a win against Thomas and Cameron Young.

McIlroy described the day as “really challenging,” while Lowry seemed to embrace the atmosphere.

“It was intense. It was like something I’ve never experienced,” Lowry said. “But this is what I live for. This is it. This is, like, honestly, the reason I get up in the morning, for stuff like this.”

Reflecting on the crowd’s behaviour, McIlroy stated, “People can be their own judge of whether they took it too far or not. I’m just proud of us for being able to win today with what we had to go through.”

The tension wasn’t limited to interactions with the crowd. On the course, Bryson DeChambeau screamed in the face of Tommy Fleetwood following a complaint from Fleetwood’s partner Justin Rose. Rose had objected to DeChambeau’s caddy, Greg Bodine, walking across the line of his putt, sparking a spat involving players and caddies.

“I was ready to hit my putt,” Rose explained. “I didn’t feel like that space was being honoured. I made my feelings known. Asked him to move. Maybe not as politely as I could have done, but in the scenario, it’s coming down the stretch, we both have a lot on our minds and it’s intense out there.”

Despite the disruptions and heated exchanges, Europe managed to ignore the noise and tension to win both sessions convincingly on Saturday, taking a commanding 11.5-4.5 lead.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/sport/ryder-cup-crowd-announcer-steps-down-over-expletive-filled-rory-mcilroy-chant-1812147.html

Mumbai: Ample Mission Awards 2025 Honours Unsung Heroes Across Defence, Civic And Cultural Fields

**Ample Mission Awards of Inspiration 2025 Honours Unsung Heroes Across Defence, Civil Services, and Culture**

On Saturday, the Ample Mission Awards of Inspiration 2025 celebrated an array of extraordinary individuals, including a Kargil war veteran, an army doctor from the 1971 Indo-Pak War, a defence technologist, and a policeman who played a pivotal role during the 26/11 terror attacks. These awards recognise unsung heroes who have made significant contributions to the nation.

### Platform for Unsung Heroes

Founded in 2014 by philanthropist and industrialist Dr. Aneel Kashi Murarka, the Ample Mission Awards provide a unique platform to honour the silent champions across various fields in India. The awards highlight stories of courage, dedication, and service that often go unnoticed.

### Defence and Military Honourees

Among the distinguished awardees were:

– **Captain Pradeep Pattanaik**, a Kargil war veteran noted for his extraordinary bravery under intense shelling.
– **Dr (Captain) Kanta Mukherjee**, who rendered life-saving medical care to soldiers during the 1971 Indo-Pak War.
– **Lt Col Manoj Kumar Sinha**, dedicated to mentoring India’s youth with a focus on leadership and patriotism.
– **Lt Cdr Nidhi Taneja**, a navy veteran, mountaineer, and trainer inspiring young women to pursue careers in defence.
– **Cdr Vijay Pratap Singh**, a Kargil hero turned defence technologist contributing to India’s military advancements.
– **Group Captain Yogesh Pai**, a pilot and mentor known for his leadership in the air force.
– **Flying Officer Itisha Chauhan**, who managed critical air operations during the Kargil conflict.

### Bravery in Civil Services

The awards also recognised exceptional courage in civil services:

– **Assistant Sub-Inspector Mangesh Naik**, honoured for risking his life during the 26/11 terror attacks and playing a major role in capturing the only surviving terrorist, Ajmal Kasab.
– **Naulesh Kumar** of the Coast Guard, lauded for leading a daring night-time rescue at sea.
– **Deputy Commandant Bhupender Singh**, celebrated for his analytical thinking and courage in averting a potential maritime disaster.

### Cultural and Civic Contributions

Beyond uniformed services, the awards acknowledged remarkable contributions in culture, media, and civic activism:

– Radio jockeys **Devangana Chauhan** and **Salil Acharya** were honoured for their impactful work in radio and media.
– **Brinda Miller**, an artist and cultural innovator, recognised for her visionary leadership of the Kala Ghoda Festival.
– **Dr Udaykumar Shiroorkar**, a lawyer and activist committed to social causes.
– **Anita Patil**, the first woman field director of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, celebrated for her conservation efforts.
– **Nazim Shaikh**, hailed for heroism in saving lives during a boat capsize near the Gateway of India.

Additionally, officers from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at Mumbai Airport were recognised for their vigilance and integrity in safeguarding millions of passengers daily. These included Sub-Inspectors **Narendra Mohan Sharma** and **Razia Sultan**, Head Constables **C Amit Kumar** and **Dinesh Kumar**, Assistant Sub-Inspector **Sarvin Kumar**, and Sub-Inspector **Chandra Shekhar Kumar**.

### Ceremony at KC College

The awards ceremony took place at KC College in Churchgate, Mumbai. It was attended by students who had the opportunity to draw inspiration from the real-life heroes honoured that day, underscoring the importance of courage, service, and dedication in shaping the future of the nation.

—

The Ample Mission Awards continue to shine a light on the selfless efforts of individuals who embody strength and resilience, reminding us all of the power of commitment and compassion.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-ample-mission-awards-2025-honours-unsung-heroes-across-defence-civic-and-cultural-fields

Jaguar Land Rover in IT systems boast – just months before hack

Jaguar Land Rover claimed the security of its computer systems was “transformed” and on a “positive trajectory” just months before a devastating cyberattack crippled Britain’s biggest carmaker, The Mail on Sunday can reveal.

The firm is now facing billions of pounds in losses after hackers broke into its IT network at the end of August. The breach forced Jaguar Land Rover to shut its three factories located in Solihull and Wolverhampton in the West Midlands, and Halewood in Merseyside. These sites are expected to remain closed until at least Wednesday, but there are fears the production shutdown could last much longer, increasing pressure on Jaguar Land Rover’s extensive network of suppliers.

Ministers have been scrambling over the weekend to pull together a rescue package. However, the support plan stops short of a Covid-style furlough scheme designed to pay workers to stay at home.

Jaguar Land Rover’s three factories produce about 1,000 cars a day and directly employ 30,000 people. Additionally, another 200,000 workers in the just-in-time supply chain depend on the carmaker for their jobs.

Experts estimate that Jaguar Land Rover is burning through up to £1 billion in cash every month due to the disruption. Compounding the crisis, the firm had not taken out cyber insurance to protect itself from hacker attacks, leaving it liable for all losses and associated costs stemming from the attack.

Despite the recent attack, the Indian-owned company had been increasingly confident about its cybersecurity. Its latest accounts, signed off in May, painted an improving picture of its information security systems, describing them as being on a “positive trajectory.”

“We are on the right path with the necessary momentum and investment to systematically reduce risks while enhancing cyber readiness and resilience,” stated the principal risks section of the report. It also added, “IT operations are being transformed.”

Jaguar Land Rover’s IT services are outsourced under an £800 million, five-year deal to Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), which, like Jaguar Land Rover, is part of the Tata business empire. TCS also provides IT services to Marks & Spencer and the Co-op, two retailers that were hit by costly cyber attacks earlier this year, each losing hundreds of millions of pounds.

Financially, Jaguar Land Rover is highly profitable with deep pockets. The company made £2.5 billion in pre-tax profit last year and, as of the end of June, had £5 billion in liquidity — comprising £3.3 billion in cash and a £1.7 billion loan facility.

“This is a pretty solid liquidity position,” said David Bailey, professor of business economics at Birmingham Business School. “JLR will get through this.”

However, Bailey warned that without Tata’s continued support, Jaguar Land Rover could have as little as three to four months left before running out of cash if the disruption continues. The company has already manually paid £300 million to suppliers in recent days to keep them operational.

“JLR is facing its biggest crisis ever and is doing its bit to keep suppliers going,” Bailey said.

Tata Consultancy Services told MPs this week that it was “premature to provide a definitive” assessment of the financial impact but added that the company was in a “good position” to secure extra borrowing if needed.

Hopes that the worst of the cyberattack may be behind them were raised last week when Jaguar Land Rover announced that some of its systems were back online. The company said it was “working to clear a backlog of payments” to suppliers as it increased its processing capacity for invoicing.

Bailey added, “Tata Consultancy Services clearly has some very big questions to answer as to how JLR was left so vulnerable. This has become the biggest crisis in JLR’s history and has required a massive effort by all involved at the firm to get through this. There needs to be a deep-dive, root-cause analysis of how this happened and how to avoid it in the future.”

Tata Consultancy Services was contacted for comment.

While car production remains on hold, a spokesperson for Jaguar Land Rover said:
“Our teams are working around the clock, alongside cybersecurity specialists, the National Cyber Security Centre and law enforcement to investigate the cyber incident. The foundational work of our recovery programme is firmly under way and we thank everyone connected with JLR for their continued support and patience.”
https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/markets/article-15139497/Jaguar-Land-Rover-systems-boast-just-months-hack.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490