Go-ahead transport giant hit by cyber attack on its buses

TRANSPORT operator Go-ahead is battling a cyber attack after hackers infiltrated its bus division’s IT systems.

The former FTSE 250 transport company said it was “managing a cyber security incident” after uncovering “unauthorised activity on its network” on Monday. It said it did not believe customer data had been breached.

The hack has affected Go-ahead’s back office systems and software at its bus arm, disrupting driver rosters leading to possible delays to its services.

The company’s train division, which includes Govia Thameslink, Great Northern, Gatwick Express and Southern rail, has not been affected.

Go-ahead said it was working with digital forensic experts and had engaged IBM to activate its back-up IT systems to keep its services running.

It is understood customer data is dealt with by Go-ahead’s booking and payment providers, and is not held by the company. Go-ahead said it has notified the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) “as a precaution”. The Newcastle-based firm employs 30,000.