Biman Bangladesh Airlines has failed to retrieve its email server, which was hacked six days ago through the use of ransomware, a type of malware that can take over the control of a computer or a server.

“I have already spoken with the managing director of the national flag carrier. Measures are underway in this regard,” State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Md Mahbub Ali said on Wednesday while addressing reporters in an event at a hotel in the capital.

Responding to a question on the reported involvement of Biman employees, who have recently been accused of corruption and irregularities, in the cyber attack, he said a probe body is investigating the matter. 
“We are aware of all the possibilities,” Mahbub Ali said, adding that steps will be taken to ensure that such incidents don’t happen in the future.

The server was attacked with ransomware on Friday, said a Biman official. The hackers demanded a ransom when people tried to log in or open a file on the server.

As the server was hacked, the national carrier could not conduct any domestic or international correspondence using its official email. 

There is a risk of information being leaked as officials use Biman’s mailing system for correspondence regarding internal purchases, scheduling and billing.

When asked if any information was leaked after the hackers took over the server, the state minister said that was yet to be determined.

According to aviation sector insiders, Biman is likely to face major business losses if the information leaks.