Data of Thousands of Minnesotans Possibly Exposed by Ransomware Attack

Austin, MN (KROC-AM News)- A ransomware attack earlier this year in Mower County led to the theft of data impacting thousands of Minnesotans. 

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A notice published by the county on Wednesday says the attack was detected on June 18. 

Upon detecting the attack, Mower County officials launched an investigation with the assistance of cybersecurity and data forensics consultants to secure the network and determine the scope of the breach.

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Federal law enforcement was also informed of the cyber attack.

Thousands of Mower County Residents Notified of Personal Data Stolen During Cyber Attack

The investigation determined the unauthorized access to the county’s system occurred sometime between June 11 and June 18. It also found that sensitive personal data collected by the county was stolen. 

County officials say the information impacted by the attack includes Social Security numbers, birthdates, names, identification card numbers, fingerprints, financial account information, medical and health insurance information and payment card information. 

There are no indications as of December 3 that the impacted personal information has been released or put up for sale, the notice says.

A news release says the impacted residents with up-to-date contact information will receive notification letters in the mail in the coming days. Mower County Executive Assistant Denise Barthels tells KROC News that 27,064 notices have been sent out. 

Officials are urging residents to review account statements and free credit reports for suspicious activity and to report any suspected incidents of identity theft to law enforcement.