Ransomware Attack on City of St. Cloud, Florida: Hunters International Strikes
Ransomware Attack on City of St. Cloud, Florida by Hunters International
Attack Overview
The City of St. Cloud, Florida, recently fell victim to a significant ransomware attack orchestrated by the cybercriminal group known as Hunters International. The attack led to the exfiltration of approximately 1.4 terabytes of data, encompassing 719,597 files. The specific ransom demand details have not been disclosed publicly.
Victim Overview
The local government entity, The City of St. Cloud, provides a wide range of services to its residents and businesses. With an annual revenue of approximately $57 million and a workforce of 652 employees, the city stands out for its comprehensive resources aimed at fostering a supportive environment for business and community development. Key services include a Business Start-Up Guide, local business tax information, and extensive public works and permit information systems.
Vulnerabilities and Target Profile
Given its role in local government, the City of St. Cloud manages a substantial amount of sensitive data related to its citizens and local businesses. This data, coupled with the city's digital transformation initiatives such as online accounts for service management, makes it an attractive target for ransomware attacks. The extensive data repositories and interconnected systems potentially increase the risk of cyber threats if not adequately protected.
Implications of the Attack
The breach not only threatens the privacy and security of the residents' and businesses' data but also puts a spotlight on the cybersecurity measures in place at municipal levels. This incident serves as a critical reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist within public sector information systems and the continuous need for enhanced security protocols.
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