The interruption to the City of Sheboygan’s data network infrastructure was, in fact, an intentional act known as a “ransomware attack”. In such attacks an outside actor gains access to a data system, encrypts the data and holds it hostage until a ransom is paid. According to a release issued on Sunday, a request for ransom has been received, and the City is cooperating fully with law enforcement and incorporating their guidance into a response.
City Administrator Casey Bradley said that the City has retained cybersecurity experts to respond to the incident, and the investigation has so far identified unauthorized access to the network by an external party. Bradley said that the network has been secured and a thorough forensic review is underway in order to understand the full scope of the incident.
To this point, it’s not been determined if any sensitive personal information has been compromised, but should that be the case, individuals will be notified as soon as possible and provided with resources and assistance.
Those with questions, or needing city services are requested to call the main line at 459-4000.
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