Ukraine's state-owned railway operator, Ukrzaliznytsia, announced on Monday that it had been hit by a large-scale cyberattack, disrupting online ticket sales and mobile app functionality. Despite the attack, train operations continue to run smoothly, with no delays reported.

The cyberattack's impact was evident at Kyiv's central station, where dozens of people waited in long lines to buy tickets for travel within Ukraine and abroad. Daryna Antoniuk, a journalist based in Ukraine, reported the disruption from the scene, highlighting the unusual crowds at the station.

In a statement on its official Telegram channel, Ukrzaliznytsia assured customers that train traffic remains stable, with all operational processes set up in a backup format. The railway operator emphasized that the "enemy" failed to disrupt train operations, and that trains are running "clearly, without delays."

As a precautionary measure, Ukrzaliznytsia advised customers to purchase tickets through ticket offices or, as a last resort, to buy them directly from the train. The operator did not provide further details on the nature of the cyberattack or the measures being taken to mitigate its effects.

The incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of cybersecurity in the transportation sector. As more services move online, the risk of cyberattacks increases, and operators must be prepared to respond quickly and effectively to minimize disruptions. Ukrzaliznytsia's swift response and backup systems have helped to limit the impact of the attack, but the incident highlights the need for continued investment in cybersecurity measures.

The attack on Ukrzaliznytsia also raises concerns about the potential for cyberattacks to disrupt critical infrastructure and essential services. As Ukraine continues to face ongoing cyber threats, the incident underscores the importance of cooperation between government agencies, private companies, and international partners to combat cybercrime and protect critical infrastructure.

In the aftermath of the attack, Ukrzaliznytsia will likely face scrutiny over its cybersecurity protocols and response mechanisms. The incident may also prompt a broader review of cybersecurity measures across Ukraine's transportation sector, with a focus on identifying vulnerabilities and implementing robust defenses to prevent similar attacks in the future.

As the investigation into the cyberattack continues, Ukrzaliznytsia's customers and the wider public will be watching closely to see how the operator responds to this incident and works to prevent similar disruptions in the future.