Gardaí are trying to track down those behind an attempted hack of their computers.

The threat was identified last Thursday and gardaí say no data was accessed.

The type of malware used often gets access to computers through email attachments.

Members of the Computer Crime Investigation Unit (CCIU) are now working to determine if the attack came from inside or outside of Ireland.

A Garda statement: “Heightened security procedures were implemented and standard protocols were enforced across all garda information and communications technology environments to limit any effect on our systems.

“Working with security experts the threat was identified and an appropriate solution was implemented across all An Garda Siochana ICT systems.”

Mark Toland, Deputy Chief Inspector with the Garda Inspectorate, has said that Ireland is not prepared for serious cybercrime offences.

The inspectorate has expressed the need for a dedicated cybercrime unit, which will enable gardaí to tackle cyberattacks and enhance online security systems.