Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malware in which hackers access files and encrypt them, demanding payment to restore access. Coverage includes ransomware attacks on cities, states, schools and public utilities, as well as legislative efforts to curb the threat and set policy on how to respond.
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A school district in Pennsylvania canceled classes Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this week while it investigates and isolates a ransomware virus, which did not appear to have come from a local source.
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The Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority has said it found an intrusion Nov. 21 and “immediately activated” defensive controls. The organization was able to interrupt the incursion underway.
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Public- and private-sector security leaders examined trends in cyber threats at the recent California Cybersecurity Education Summit. During an attack, one said, responding quickly is still very important.
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While COVID-19 has made continuity of public services more critical than ever, it has also made them more vulnerable. A few guidelines can help organizations prepare for and prevent ransomware incidents.
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Officials are increasing the cybersecurity stance of the borough after it fell victim to a ransomware attack in April. Protections include an additional layer of security with an onsite backup of its computers.
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An Oregon city has paid out a ransom to hackers who took its computers hostage recently, becoming the latest in a recent string of communities to get caught in an apparent upsurge in cyberattacks.
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The city was forced to take its network offline as a means of containing the malware attack after it was discovered Thursday morning. Officials say the incident is being investigated by state and federal authorities.
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The ransomware attack against Rio Arriba County was first discovered earlier this week. The incident encrypted network servers, electronic files, and databases. The extent of damage is under investigation.
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The Bernards Township, N.J., computer system was breached by a ransomware attack that was discovered Monday night that caused the township’s website to go offline, the mayor and administrator said.
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System administrators discovered Friday that hackers had taken over a portion of the statewide court network and were demanding ransom before control of the system was restored. This is not the first such attack.
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The widespread cyberattack came at the end of last week, plunging the state into response and recovery mode. At least 23 cities and towns are working with state and federal authorities to mitigate the damage.
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