Ransomware Attack On Nevada State Government

The Nevada state government is currently grappling with a significant ransomware attack that has severely impacted numerous state functions, causing the closure of key offices such as the DMV. The attack also disrupted online services and affected the state’s ability to handle payments for contractors and vendors.

Limited Information Released

While Governor Joe Lombardo acknowledged that government offices were temporarily shut down, no details about a ransom demand or the target of the attack were made public. The state’s law prevents revealing specific technical information to avoid jeopardizing public safety.

Recovery Efforts and Public Advice

State Chief Information Officer Tim Galluzi highlighted the complexity of restoring systems, emphasizing that residents should exercise caution against fraudulent requests for financial information. The memo from the governor’s office warned citizens not to provide passwords or bank details via phone calls or emails, urging them to verify any official state communications online.

Common Targets for Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware attacks on local governments have increased in frequency. The city of Columbus faced a major cyberattack last year, leading to the establishment of new cybersecurity protocols in Ohio. Similar disruptions occurred in St. Paul, Minnesota, and Fulton County, Georgia.

Preventing Ransomware Attacks

Tracy Goldberg, Director of Cybersecurity at Javelin Strategy & Research, stated that smaller municipalities and utilities are frequently targeted by ransomware attacks often initiated through phishing scams. To mitigate risks, entities need to implement DNS blocking measures, enhance anti-phishing education, and consider collaborating with organizations specializing in threat intelligence for better risk identification.