A cyberattack has compromised the personal data of hundreds of thousands of people in Rhode Island, prompting the state to take its RIBridges system offline. The attack, which may have exposed sensitive information such as names, addresses, and social security numbers, occurred between 2019 and the present.
RIBridges System Offline Until Further Notice
The RIBridges web portal and app, used for applying to Medicaid, food stamps, and other state benefits, are currently unavailable. According to a government website providing updates on the breach, Rhode Islanders will not be able to log into their accounts until further notice.
Governor Dan McKee Provides Update
During a press briefing, Governor Dan McKee stated that attackers may have gained access to personal information of individuals who have used the RIBridges system during the specified timeframe. The governor emphasized the importance of maintaining public safety and taking swift action to mitigate the effects of the cyberattack.
State Chief Digital Officer Brian Tardiff Speaks on Attack
The state’s Chief Digital Officer, Brian Tardiff, clarified that the attack is not ransomware but rather an "extortion type activity" by a cybercriminal group. This means that the attackers are attempting to extort money or other concessions from the state in exchange for restoring access to the compromised data.
HealthSource RI Affected
The cyberattack also impacted HealthSource RI, Rhode Island’s healthcare marketplace. The state is working diligently to get the system back online before the healthcare open enrollment period ends on January 31st.
Measures Being Taken to Mitigate the Breach
In the meantime, mail-in paper applications and instructions for using them are available at the Department of Human Services website. Additionally, the state plans to publish a call center number tomorrow, which will be available from 11 AM to 8 PM ET on Sunday morning and from 9 AM to 9 PM ET Monday through Friday thereafter.
Free Credit Monitoring Offered
The Rhode Island government has also announced that it will mail instructions for free credit monitoring to those affected by the breach. This measure is designed to provide individuals with an added layer of protection against potential identity theft or other financial consequences resulting from the cyberattack.
Timeline of Events
- 2019-Present: The period during which the cyberattack occurred, compromising personal data of hundreds of thousands of people.
- Friday (Date Unknown): The RIBridges system went offline following the cyberattack.
- Tomorrow (Date Unknown): The state will publish a call center number for individuals to seek assistance with the breach.
- January 31st: The healthcare open enrollment period ends, and the state hopes to have the HealthSource RI system back online by this date.
Conclusion
The Rhode Island government is taking swift action to address the cyberattack and mitigate its effects. By keeping the public informed through regular updates, the state aims to provide affected individuals with the support they need during this challenging time.
