Ransomware Attack Disrupts Wood County Government Operations in Ohio
On December 9, 2024, the Wood County Information Technology Department in Bowling Green, Ohio, detected a ransomware attack on the county government's computer network, publicly disclosing it the next day. The attack disrupted operations in key departments, including the sheriff’s office, jail, and court systems, necessitating a temporary shift to manual processes. Critical emergency services, such as 911 operations, remained fully functional despite these challenges. According to the county, law enforcement and cybersecurity experts are working to assess the impact and identify vulnerabilities. Officials have not disclosed whether a ransom demand has been issued or the extent of any data compromise.
This incident is part of a troubling pattern of ransomware attacks targeting Ohio's public institutions. In July 2024, Columbus experienced a ransomware attack attributed to the Rhysida group, compromising personal data of approximately 500,000 residents. Similarly, in June 2024, Cleveland's City Hall was forced to close to the public following a ransomware attack that disrupted city operations. These events underscore the escalating cybersecurity threats facing local governments in Ohio, highlighting the urgent need for robust defenses against such attacks.