“We have been gradually reinstating systems once all necessary checks have been completed and when we can be confident they are virus free,” says NMR’s managing director Andy Warne “We can assure our customers - producers, milk buyers and vets - that there has been no data breach as a result of this virus attack, and that our laboratory testing services remain as robust as ever.”
Recovery of the scheduled NML payment testing system was a priority, on September 14, with internal and external web interface reporting put in place three days later, on September 17, to enable NML clients to view the test data. Interim reporting solutions were put in place later in the week so results could be reported to producers by email and text. “Since then we have made very good progress with getting back to normal reporting methods,” he adds.
“Herd Companion, our online reporting system, is now available again with most functionality enabled, including the action lists. This is particularly important for our milk recording customers. NML test data can also be accessed by all producers through this website using the Milk Quality Monitor system.
“We have been offering a basic milk recording service as an interim measure and the full milk recording service should start again imminently, with a plan to commence within the next 24 hours (October 10).”
NMR immediately started an investigation using a forensic company to ascertain how the virus initially gained access into its system and, more importantly, into ensuring it does not happen again. The virus attack has also been reported to the National Cyber Crime Security Centre and it is being investigated.
“We are apologising sincerely to all our customers for the inconvenience that this virus attack has caused them and thank them very much for their patience and understanding,” says Mr Warne. “We will continue to post regular updates of progress on our web site and our customer services team are available on 03330 043 043.”