Cyber attack on PK Softech: City of Zurich Pension Fund halts system changeover
Following a cyber attack in September, data belonging to PKZH insured parties was stolen. The foundation board suspends the planned switch to a new administration system.
PKZH freezes rollout of new administration system following data breach
The City of Zurich Pension Fund (PKZH) has temporarily halted its planned switch to a new administration system. As reported by the Tages-Anzeiger, the pension fund announced on Tuesday that the foundation board will make a new decision only after a comprehensive review of the cyber attack in September.
Originally, PKZH intended to switch to a system from software provider PK Softech in early 2027. As part of the preparations, insured parties' data was already transmitted to PK Softech – precisely the data that cybercriminals stole in their attack. The existing administration system will continue to be operated; pensions and benefits are being paid out as usual according to PKZH.
Which data was exactly stolen and how many individuals are affected remains unknown. In the worst case scenario, the data breach includes personal contact details, AHV numbers, marital status, information about partners, IBAN numbers, as well as pension data such as insured earnings and credit balances. According to the pension fund, pension assets and pensions are not at risk.
In addition to PKZH, the Bernese Pension Fund, the Bernese Teachers' Insurance Funds and the pension funds of Post and Migros were also affected by the attack on PK Softech. The Federal Public Prosecutor's Office is investigating. Additionally, Switzerland's highest data protection officer has opened his own investigation.
Source: Tages-Anzeiger