The Thialf ice stadium in Heerenveen was recently targeted by a cyberattack, which involved demands for ransom and threats to publish stolen data on the dark web.
NOS Schaatsen, a Dutch news outlet, reported on the incident and the subsequent investigation into the attack.
The criminal group behind the attack reportedly made some computers inaccessible and demanded ransom, threatening to release sensitive data. However, Thialf has confirmed the site was targeted but stated that the overall impact of the attack was negligible. According to a statement on the stadium’s website, forensic investigations were conducted by both internal and external professionals, confirming that data and operational processes were not compromised or endangered during the incident.
While RTL Nieuws reported that the ice rink is communicating with the cybercriminals, Thialf has neither confirmed engagement in these discussions nor commented on whether any ransom was requested or paid. The investigation identified the hacker group as The Gentlemen, a criminal organization active since last year. This group has targeted multiple entities in the Netherlands, including the Dutch Language Institute and a construction company. Previously, Microsoft issued warnings about The Gentlemen, highlighting their proficiency in locking computers and disrupting networks to coerce ransom payments.
Thialf is set to serve as the venue for Olympic long-track speed skating in 2030, marking the first time any part of the Winter Olympic Games will be held in the Netherlands. Despite the recent cyberattack, the facility remains operational and unaffected in its preparations for the event.
