WASHINGTON — The personal and banking information of hundreds of thousands of residents in the U.S. state of Rhode Island, including Social Security numbers, has likely been compromised in a cyberattack carried out by an international criminal group. According to officials, the hackers have demanded a ransom to prevent the release of the stolen data.
In a statement released on Saturday, Rhode Island officials described the incident as an extortion attempt. Hackers reportedly threatened to publicly disclose the stolen information if their financial demands are not met. The stolen data is believed to include sensitive details of residents who rely on state assistance programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and healthcare coverage through the state’s HealthSource RI program.
Governor Dan McKee addressed the breach, emphasizing the potential harm to affected individuals. “The misuse of this personal data could cause significant damage to people who rely on vital state assistance programs. Our focus is on safeguarding their information and ensuring that the necessary resources are available to them during this challenging time,” McKee said.
Attack on RIBridges System
The breach targeted Rhode Island’s RIBridges system, which processes applications and manages benefits for multiple state programs. In response to the attack, the system has been temporarily shut down to prevent further damage. While this action aims to contain the breach, it has disrupted services for new applicants, who are now required to submit paper forms until the system is restored.
State officials are working with cybersecurity experts and federal authorities to investigate the incident and determine the extent of the breach. Households impacted by the hack will receive notifications with detailed instructions on how to protect their personal information.
Broader Cybersecurity Concerns
This incident is not the first cyberattack to affect Rhode Island institutions. In September 2024, the Providence public school system fell victim to a ransomware attack, where hackers demanded $1 million in exchange for restoring access to the system. These recurring attacks highlight growing cybersecurity vulnerabilities in public institutions.
Cybersecurity experts warn that such breaches can have long-term consequences, from identity theft to financial fraud. They recommend that affected individuals monitor their financial accounts closely, freeze their credit if necessary, and take advantage of any identity theft protection services offered by the state.
Steps Forward
Governor McKee has vowed to strengthen the state’s cybersecurity infrastructure to prevent future attacks. “We are committed to ensuring that Rhode Island residents can trust the systems designed to support them. This breach serves as a wake-up call for enhanced vigilance and investment in cybersecurity measures,” he said.
In the meantime, Rhode Island residents are urged to stay informed and take proactive measures to protect their personal information. The state has set up a dedicated helpline to assist those affected by the breach and provide guidance on safeguarding their data.
