MURRAY COUNTY, Ga. — Murray County officials say a ransomware attack on the county’s computer network has been resolved and that most systems are now operational as the county works to securely restore service.
Murray County commissioner Noah Bishop says they decided to pay a $200,000 fee after consulting with “a team of nationally recognized third-party cybersecurity and data forensic consultants.
Bishop called it “a difficult decision made to best serve residents and employees.”
Bishop says the payment was intended to prevent the publication of county data and provide “some peace of mind” to residents.
The county says the fee was covered using reserves set aside for unexpected events or economic downturns.
Bishop says the payment had minimal impact on operations, payroll or pending projects, and that the county’s 2026 budget was unaffected.
Murray County says it has taken steps to strengthen system security and will continue “aggressive measures” to reduce the risk of a similar incident.
