The Brief
• Winona County detected a ransomware attack on Tuesday, prompting officials to take affected systems offline and declare a local state of emergency
• Minnesota National Guard cybersecurity specialists are assisting with investigation and recovery efforts after Governor Tim Walz authorized emergency assistance
• This is the second cyberattack on the county in less than three months, following a January ransomware incident
WINONA, Minn. (WKBT) — Winona County officials are working to restore computer systems after detecting a ransomware attack on Tuesday that forced the county to take affected networks offline and request assistance from the Minnesota National Guard.
In a release Wednesday, County Administrator Maureen Holte said officials immediately began investigating the incident and working with cybersecurity consultants. The county also notified the FBI and Minnesota cyber resources.
The attack marks the second ransomware incident to hit Winona County in less than three months. The county responded to a previous ransomware attack in January 2026, which also prompted an emergency declaration.
Preliminary investigation indicates different cybercriminals are responsible for the current incident compared to the January attack, Holte said.
Governor Tim Walz issued an executive order Tuesday providing emergency assistance to Winona County after the attack disrupted critical systems and digital services.
“Cyberattacks are an evolving threat that can strike anywhere, at any time,” Walz stated. “That’s why I am authorizing the National Guard to support Winona County as they work to protect critical systems and maintain essential services.”
The county declared a local state of emergency and received assistance from the Minnesota National Guard, including a specialized cybersecurity and recovery team.
Officials stressed that emergency services remained operational throughout the incident. The county confirmed that 911 fire and emergency resources continue to operate without interruption.
The public should expect delays from county services while officials work to secure and restore systems safely. Due to an ongoing criminal investigation, the county is limited in providing any further details.
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