Hackers Successfully Blackmailed County Government For $175,000

A foreign hacker group was able to take control of key Beaver County government computer systems used to run Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. Sensitive data from the office was stolen and encrypted by the cybercriminals, leaving employees without access to patient files. County commissioners ultimately decided to pay a hefty ransom to the hackers, who threatened to release medical records onto the dark web if their demands were not met.

Beaver County Behavioral Health (BCBH) offers assistance to some of the most vulnerable members of the community, providing access to mental health, drug and alcohol, intellectual disability and autism services.

Several employees of BCBH contacted BeaverCountian.com late last month, saying they had been locked out of their county computers due to a serious security breach by hackers. The employees spoke on condition of anonymity, saying they were instructed to remain silent about the incident.

In This Article:

• What employees say they were told to do — and not say
• Two officials who were against the payment but couldn't stop it
• The federal disclosure requirement now hanging over the county

You've started reading a story you won't find anywhere else.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT DOESN'T WATCH ITSELF

We do — with your help. We investigate the people and institutions making decisions that affect your family, your community and your tax dollars.

Become A Member

$20 A Month – Cancel Online At Any Time

Not ready to become a member yet?

Get notified about our latest reporting.

---

Already A Member? Sign In Here