In a gripping tale of corporate greed and technological manipulation, three fearless hackers exposed a chilling truth that rocked the rail industry.
Newag’s Retaliation: A Legal Odyssey Begins
The Polish rail vehicle manufacturer Newag reacted with a heavy-handed approach reminiscent of the 90s, unleashing a barrage of criminal and civil lawsuits against the hackers. Their transgression? Revealing at the 37C3 conference how Newag had rigged its trains to only function in the company’s own repair shops through sophisticated sabotage measures.
The Cost of Truth: Supporting the Fearless Researchers
Undeterred by Newag’s intimidation tactics, the Chaos Computer Club (CCC) has rallied behind the three hackers, raising funds to cover the staggering 30,000 euros in legal fees incurred thus far. The CCC’s unwavering stance sends a powerful message: corporate bullying will not silence those who expose unethical practices.
Uncovering the Hibernation Trap: A Monstrous Discovery
But what exactly did the hackers uncover? A truly monstrous scheme – Newag trains would enter a ‘hibernation’ mode, deactivating themselves if left unattended within competitors’ or customers’ workshops for too long. Only Newag technicians could ‘rescue’ these sabotaged trains, ensuring a monopoly on repairs and maintenance.
The Chaotic Consequences: Donations Needed for Justice
As the legal battle rages on, the CCC is calling for donations to support the fearless researchers and cover mounting costs. With corporate interests threatening to silence whistleblowers, the fight for transparency and accountability has never been more crucial. Will you stand with the hackers who dared to expose the truth?
