Front line Coastguard services unaffected by internet bug

Despite back office computers being affected by the virulent Internet Sasser Worm earlier today, HM Coastguard services remain largely unaffected.

Her Majesty’s Coastguard continually practice for events such as these and when databases and other computer held information began to go offline this morning a paper based system, known colloquially as ‘pinkies’, began to be put into effect.

This system was in use before the more widespread use of computers and has served the Coastguard well over many years. Currently computer aided maps have been set aside in favour of manual map reading and the Coastguard will need to contact other services for accurate database retrieval while its own systems are down.

Peter Dymond, Head of Search and Rescue at the Agency said: “Radio and other forms of communication from ships at sea remain unaffected and despite the problems that this bug has given us this morning and the way that it might hinder our access of information, we remain confident that by telephone and other forms of communication we can ensure that no rescue or incident will be affected. Our IT department are working hard to bring the rest of the Agency – and Coastguard Stations - back on line during the rest of the day.”

The Sasser Worm first appeared on May 1.

(GB)