Hackers Attack BrickLink, Request Ransom from the LEGO Group

Roughly 14 hours prior to the time this article was written, a ransom was issued to the LEGO Group and BrickLink, the world's largest website for buying and selling LEGO, was taken down. On LEGO forums and BrickLink community groups, ominous messages from the hackers were posted, advising LEGO to pay $50,000 euro worth of BitCoin.

A ransom note from user Bradenp.

Another note from the hackers. It's likely BrickLink removed the original threatening post, resulting in further contact from the hackers.

Currently the official BrickLink website is down, with the following webpage showing up when attempting to visit the site:

The BrickLink website currently shows the above page. Image source: BrickLink.com.

I have a BrickLink account, should I be worried?

Unfortunately, we cannot rule out the possibility that accounts have been compromised as a result of the supposed hack. While BrickLink has posted a cute LEGO Star Wars image and reassurance they are investigating the issue, it's possible the cyberattack may have serious implications for not only BrickLink users, but possibly people with standard LEGO.com accounts.

If you're concerned about the ongoing events, you should consider changing your password for banking applications, and avoid making purchases through LEGO.com until the situation is resolved. We have seen reports online from employees at third-party stores that operate through BrickLink that they are unable to work due to the website outage, and this could have serious implications for people whose livelihoods are sustained through BrickLink. We'll provide further information and updates as the situation progresses.