The Department of Migrant Workers' (DMW) online systems suffered a ransomware attack, the agency announced on Tuesday, July 16, while assuring that the database containing Overseas Filipino Workers' (OFW) information has not been breached.
"Rest assured, DMW databases containing OFW data were not affected by the attack, and that the DMW is currently working with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to restore online systems and ensure continued protection of the data and information of OFWs," DMW said in a statement.
As a preventive measure, DMW has temporarily taken its electronic services down while its systems undergo repairs. These systems include the ones which issue Overseas Employment Certificates (OEC) or OFW Passes, such as the DMW mobile app.
Those looking to obtain OECs or OFW Passes have been instructed to proceed to either the DMW National Office, Regional Offices and extensions, One-stop shops, or Migrant Workers Assistance Centers for the manual processing of the documents.
Meanwhile, OFWs who wish to secure information sheets will only have to send a request via email at [email protected] or message the DMW's Facebook Messenger. The agency will send back QR codes through which the information sheets may be accessed.
The DMW concluded its statement with an apology for inconveniences it has caused OFWs and their families, and an assurance that it is "exerting all efforts" in its continued service and is "instituting stronger measures" to secure private information.
