Rhode Island Benefits System Hacked

Rhode Island's RIBridges system, which manages public benefits applications, has been shut down following a cyberattack, potentially exposing the personal data of hundreds of thousands of residents. Hackers involved in this ransomware attack are threatening to release sensitive information, including names, addresses, and Social Security numbers, unless their ransom demands are met. The attack affects multiple programs like Medicaid and SNAP, and the state has responded by collaborating with Deloitte, the system's vendor, to address the breach and restore services. The state has also established a hotline with Experian for affected individuals and is advising them to change passwords and monitor accounts for unauthorized activity. A class-action lawsuit has been filed against Deloitte, and the state is distributing information on free credit monitoring to those impacted. Governor Dan McKee has highlighted the urgency of this threat, emphasizing the state's efforts to resolve the issue promptly.