In a major breach of the US Marshals Service’s computer systems this month with ransomware, hackers stole sensitive and personally identifiable data about agency employees and targets. the investigation, an agency spokesman said Tuesday.
The hacked system was disconnected from the network shortly after the breach and stolen data were discovered on February 17. The Department of Justice determined this was a major incident and opened an investigation. as the Marshals work “quickly and efficiently” to reduce any risks associated with the breach, agency spokesman Drew Wade said Tuesday.
The hack was first reported by NBC News.
The incident is the latest example of cybercriminals targeting a government agency in a ransom plot and raises questions about the Justice Department’s cybersecurity protocols.
February 17 was also when CNN reported that an FBI computer system had been compromised. It cites unnamed sources as saying the system is located at the FBI’s field office in New York. When asked about the intrusion, the office released a statement calling the intrusion “an isolated incident that was prevented.” It declined to comment further, including when the intrusion occurred and whether ransomware was involved.
Ransomware attacks have become the most serious cybersecurity concern in the world. They have crippled everything from Britain’s postal service to Ireland’s national health network to the government of Costa Rica. Schools, hospitals, and local governments are frequently targeted.
FBI and international law enforcement officials won a victory last month when they disrupted, at least temporarily, a thriving ransomware gang, saving a potential ransom of 130 million dollars.
In ransomware attacks, organized gangs break into computer networks and plant malware that cripples them by encrypting data. But before activating the ransomware, they stole data. The criminals can then hold the data hostage even if the target quickly restores the affected network using backup data.
The agency said the hacked US Marshals system contained sensitive law enforcement and personally identifiable information about the subjects of investigation and certain US Marshals employees. It is tasked with tracking fugitives, transporting federal prisoners, protecting witnesses, and providing security for the courts.
In May 2021, hackers targeted the largest fuel pipeline in the United States, prompting operators to briefly shut down the pipeline and make ransom payments worth thousands of dollars. million dollars, which the federal government later recovered most of.
In December, a hacker claimed to have breached an outreach program run by the FBI that shared sensitive information about national security and cybersecurity threats with public and private officials. critical infrastructure operator in the United States.