Connecticut Ransomware Attacks May Have Exposed Data of More Than 12,600 Residents: Report

Ransomware attacks on two Connecticut cities may have exposed the sensitive personal information of more than 12,600 residents.

The incidents hit municipal networks in New Britain and Meriden earlier this year and prompted breach notices filed with the state attorney general’s office, reports CT Examiner.

New Britain’s attack ran from January 23rd to January 28th, with the city becoming aware of possible data exposure on February 1st and notifying residents on March 27th.

Meriden’s attack lasted from February 9th to March 13th, with awareness of data exposure in May and resident notification on June 2nd.

Combined, the notices indicate 10,339 residents in New Britain and 2,325 in Meriden could have had names, dates of birth, driver’s license numbers, Social Security numbers, passport numbers, financial account information, medical information or health insurance information exposed.

Both cities say they responded by securing systems, conducting investigations and notifying law enforcement or forensic specialists.

Evan Allard, director of Connecticut Central Intelligence, says financially motivated ransomware is rising fast and hitting more sectors.

“Year over year, ransomware, specifically executed by financially motivated actors, is increasing exponentially, and it’s not just increasing, it’s increasing in the sectors that are targeted.”

The mayors’ offices and state police did not respond to requests for comment.

State law requires towns to notify the attorney general within 60 days of a breach and offer credit monitoring if Social Security numbers are involved.

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