Lake City Email Systems and Services Attacked by Triple Threat Ransomware

Exploit: Ransomware
Lake City : Local government organization serving Lake City, Florida

Risk to Small Business: 2 = Severe: A malware attack delivered “triple threat” ransomware that targeted the city’s network systems, rendering many city services inaccessible. Although emergency services such as police and fire are operational, city email accounts, land-line phones, and credit card services were disabled. In the meantime, the city has been forced to write bills, receipts, and other services by hand. It’s a reminder that ransomware attacks are uniquely dangerous because they not only cost money to repair, but those impacted run the risk of disrupting business processes or losing valuable data.

Individual Risk: 3 = Moderate Risk: City officials believe that personal data, including online payment information, was not compromised in the breach. However, residents should monitor their accounts for suspicious activity.

Customers Impacted: 422,600
How it Could Affect Your Customers’ Business: : Local governments are a top target for hackers, and ransomware is becoming a commonly deployed method for extorting valuable city resources away from citizens. Therefore, every local government needs a comprehensive ransomware response plan before an incident occurs. Ransomware attacks are often initiated by phishing scams, signaling the importance of cybersecurity awareness and training at the front line.

Risk Levels:

1 - 1.5 = Extreme Risk
1.51 - 2.49 = Severe Risk
2.5 - 3 = Moderate Risk

*The risk score is calculated using a formula that considers a wide range of factors related to the assessed breach.