TLDR:
- Newburgh City was hit by a cyber-attack earlier this week
- City operations and sensitive information were held at ransom
Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey confirmed the cyber attack on the city, stating that law enforcement, the FBI, and IT experts are investigating the incident. The city had recently purchased cyber insurance to protect against losses resulting from cyber-attacks. The attack led to a temporary disruption of services, with City Hall and other offices closed. Residents could still contact city departments through existing phone numbers and emails, though phone and email systems may have been impacted. Mayor Harvey mentioned that the investigation is ongoing, and the timeline for resolving the situation and reopening offices is uncertain. The incident did not affect emergency services like City Police and Fire, which remained fully functional.
The cyber-attack on Newburgh City highlights the importance of cybersecurity measures for municipalities and businesses. The purchase of cyber insurance helped the city mitigate potential financial losses. It also emphasizes the need for constant vigilance and preparedness in the face of evolving cyber threats.