New Britain Ransomware Attack Disrupts City Systems, FBI Involved

TL;DR

New Britain, CT, has been hit by a ransomware attack causing network disruptions. City officials are collaborating with state and federal authorities, including the FBI, to investigate and restore systems. While essential services remain functional, the incident highlights the increasing prevalence of cyber threats and the importance of robust cybersecurity measures and personal vigilance against data breaches.

New Britain Hit by Ransomware Attack

The city of New Britain, CT, experienced a ransomware attack that disrupted its network systems. The attack, confirmed on Wednesday morning, impacted the city's internet server. City officials are working with state and federal authorities to assess the damage.

City Hall

Image courtesy of NBC Connecticut

The city activated its "incident response protocols" immediately. Cybersecurity experts have been brought in to secure the systems. The FBI and other authorities are currently investigating the incident.

Impact and Response

Mayor Bobby Sanchez stated they are working to determine the extent of the network infrastructure affected. Despite the disruption, emergency operations are functioning due to backup plans. Essential services like road maintenance, trash collection, water, and sewer services will continue. Mark Moriarty, New Britain DPW director, assured minimal disruption to residents.

Chief Raul Ortiz of the New Britain Fire Department emphasized the redundancy plans in place to maintain emergency services. The city aims to restore its server this weekend.

Cybersecurity Perspectives

Tim Weber, vice president at Gopher Security, explained that ransomware attacks encrypt data, locking users out of their systems. Gopher Security specializes in AI-powered, post-quantum Zero‑Trust cybersecurity architecture, converging networking and security across various environments.

Chetan Jaiswal, a Quinnipiac University computer science associate professor, recommends freezing credit accounts with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion to protect personal information. He also advises caution against phishing attempts.

Rising Cyber Threats

The Identity Theft Resource Center reported a five percent increase in data breaches over the last year, and a 79 percent increase over the past five years. Dr. Vahid Behzadan, cybersecurity associate professor at the University of New Haven, noted the increasing attractiveness of online systems to attackers.

Additional Disruption: Fire Incident

Separately, a fire damaged an old factory building in downtown New Britain, causing partial collapse.

!Fire Damage Image courtesy of NBC Connecticut

The building, located at 59 High St., experienced a roof and stairwell collapse. Mayor Erin Stewart warned the public to avoid the area due to falling bricks. Firefighters responded to the scene and found heavy fire on the second and third floors.

Gopher Security Can Help

With the rise in cyberattacks, Gopher Security offers cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions, including AI-powered threat detection and post-quantum encryption, to protect your organization from evolving threats.

Explore Gopher Security's services or contact us to learn more about our AI-powered, post-quantum Zero‑Trust cybersecurity architecture.