Finnish authorities recently reported that there is no evidence of criminal activity concerning damage to two data cables along the border between Sweden and Finland. The damages occurred due to excavation work and have since been repaired.
On Monday, these cables were disrupted in two separate incidents which affected around 6,000 customers and 100 businesses. Global Connect, a company involved in digital infrastructure and communications in Northern Europe, reported that the first cable was damaged in the morning and the second in the afternoon. By the following morning, repairs were completed for the first cable, restoring service to approximately 95% of affected customers. The second cable was also fixed by noon on Tuesday, ensuring that all customers regained internet access.
While disruptions to cables happen occasionally, it was unusual for two cables to be impacted on the same day within the same region. Transportation and Communications Minister Lulu Ranne acknowledged the situation on social media, emphasizing that authorities were investigating the matter alongside Global Connect.
However, Finnish police later clarified that they found no signs of criminal wrongdoing, ruling out any investigations into the incidents. This comes on the heels of previous concerns regarding the security of data cables, particularly after a separate incident last month involving damages to cables located on the Baltic Sea bed, which raised questions among Finland, Sweden, and Germany about potential sabotage.
As nations continue to depend on stable and secure digital infrastructure, the emphasis on responsible practices in construction and excavation becomes more significant. The recent incidents underline the importance of ensuring that such work does not inadvertently disrupt essential services.
