DMW online systems down after ransomware attack

A ransomware attack forced the online systems of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to go offline on Tuesday.

“The Department through its Management Information Technology System had to take pre-emptive measures to protect OFW data and information, such as taking the systems offline,” the DMW said in a statement.

“While efforts to restore online systems are ongoing, electronic or online systems that issue OECs/OFW (Overseas Employment Certificate) Passes and OFW information sheets and other online services may not be used temporarily,” it added.

The attack did not affect the databases containing OFWs’ data, according to the DMW.

The DMW is now working with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to restore the online systems and protect OFWs’ data.

The following systems and processes have been activated to deliver services to OFWs:     

1. For OFWs securing OECs/OFW Pass, they may proceed to the DMW National Office, Regional Offices and extensions, One-stop Shops, and Migrant Workers Assistance Centers for manual processing of their OECs/OFW Pass.

2. For OFWs securing their information sheets, they do not have to go to any DMW office.  They may send their request for information sheets at infosheet@dmw.gov.ph and the DMW will send their QR-coded information sheets directly to the requesting worker.  OFWs may send their requests via the DMW Facebook page messenger (https://web.facebook.com/dmw.gov.ph).

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) and airport authorities will assist the DMW for the smooth departure of OFWs.  

“The DMW apologizes for inconveniences to the OFWs and members of their families and is exerting all efforts to continue serving OFWs while instituting stronger measures to protect their information,” the DMW said. —VAL, GMA Integrated News