City of Vicksburg hit by ransomware cyberattack, mayor says | #ransomware | #cybercrime

VICKSBURG, Miss. (WLBT) – The City of Vicksburg was the subject of a ransomware cyberattack Thursday, according to Vicksburg Mayor Willis Thompson.

The incident resulted in the temporary shutdown of the City’s computer systems. However, services including 911, police departments and fire departments were unaffected by the cyberattack.

Though there may be delays for anyone attempting to make in-person payments for utility services, Thompson continued, there will be no penalties or termination of services while the City’s system is offline.

The City of Vicksburg is currently working with external cybersecurity specialists and partners to investigate this incident, while also working to securely restore its systems.

“One of the top priorities of our investigation is determining whether there was any compromise of personal or confidential information relating to current and/or former customers, contractors, vendors, employees, or affiliated business partners of the City,” Thompson said in a statement. “At this time, the investigation is ongoing, and the City has not reached a final determination regarding what information, if any, may have been accessed or acquired without authorization.”

If personal or confidential information is determined to be compromised, Thompson said the City of Vicksburg will communicate with those affected – providing resources to help them protect their information.

“The security of our systems and the data entrusted to our care is important to us. We appreciate the patience of our residents, businesses, employees, customers, and community partners as we work through this process,” Thompson added.

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