FC Barcelona documents leaked in ransomware breach
The ransomware group Qilin exposed more than 200GB of data stolen from Asefa, including documents linked to FC Barcelona.
A recent cyberattack on French insurer SMABTP’s Spanish subsidiary, Asefa, has led to the leak of over 200GB of sensitive data, including documents related to FC Barcelona.
The ransomware group Qilin has claimed responsibility for the breach, highlighting the growing threat posed by such actors. With high-profile victims now in the spotlight, the reputational damage could be substantial for Asefa and its clients.
The incident comes amid growing concern among UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) about cyber threats. According to GlobalData’s UK SME Insurance Survey 2025, more than a quarter of SMEs have been influenced by media reports of cyberattacks when purchasing cyber insurance.
Meanwhile, nearly one in five cited a competitor’s victimisation as a motivating factor.
Over 300 organisations have fallen victim to Qilin in the past year alone, reflecting a broader trend in the rise of AI-enabled cybercrime.
AI allows cybercriminals to refine their methods, making attacks more effective and challenging to detect. As a result, companies are increasingly recognising the importance of robust cybersecurity measures.
With threats escalating, there is an urgent call for insurers to offer more tailored cyber coverage and proactive services. The breach involving FC Barcelona is a stark reminder that no organisation is immune and that better risk assessment and resilience planning are now business essentials.
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