Data leak in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Rice registration at risk!

Data leak in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Rice registration at risk!

On August 13, 2025, the Foreign Ministry was experienced by a possible data leak and immediately initiated investigations to clarify the incident. Initial findings indicate that personal data from travel registration and the public website could be affected. However, the ministry's central IT systems are not said to have been affected.

In order to clarify the scope of the incident, intensive investigations are currently being made. Affected persons are informed immediately to clarify them about possible risks. The Ministry emphasizes that the incident is very serious and regrets the inconvenience associated with it. Some online services, including travel registration, were temporarily taken out to prevent further unauthorized access.

Important information for those affected

In urgent cases, the Austrian representative authorities and the Foreign Ministry can be reached around the clock at +43 1 90115 4411. The ministry ensures that any information will be provided for this incident in the future if there are new knowledge.

The consumer advice center states that in the event of a data leak, the probability that fraudsters have gained access to personal information. Important factors are the company in which the leak has occurred, as well as the type and scope of the data obtained. The possible data obtained includes the name, address, email address, telephone numbers and date of birth.

Data obtained from criminals can be misused for attempts to fraud. In particular, those affected should pay attention to fraudulent mail, emails, SMS or calls, in which further personal data or access to online banking is asked. There is a risk that criminals make purchases with stolen data or even use sensitive information such as passwords or payment information.

Those affected are strongly recommended to change their passwords immediately, especially in other places where similar passwords are used. In the event of suspicious debit from the account or credit card, the bank should be contacted immediately.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs would like to encourage everyone involved, to stay vigilant and to contact the responsible authorities in the event of concerns - to ensure a smooth exchange of information and security.

For more information about the incident, please visit the items from the Small newspaper,, Ots and the Consumer center.