A RANSOMWARE attack has paralyzed the online systems of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the agency said on Tuesday.

"As a result of a ransomware attack on DMW online systems, the Department through its management information technology system had to take preemptive measures to protect OFW (overseas Filipino worker) data and information, such as taking the systems offline," it said in a statement.

The attack had rendered the online system issuing overseas employment certificates and other OFW information sheets inoperable. These documents can now be only processed manually at all DMW branches.

"Rest assured, DMW databases containing OFW data were not affected by the attack, and that the DMW is currently working with the Department of Information and Communications Technology to restore online systems and ensure continued protection of the data and information of OFWs," the DMW said.

OFWs can request for QR coded information sheets by sending email to infosheet@dmw.gov.ph.