Cyberattack on Rhode Island's RIBridges System: Data of Hundreds of Thousands at Risk, Ransom Demanded

Dec 14, 2024, 08:06 PM

Rhode Island has suffered a significant cyberattack targeting its RIBridges online benefits system, which manages applications for various social services including Medicaid, SNAP, and health insurance through HealthSource RI. The breach, confirmed by the system's vendor Deloitte, likely compromised the personal data of hundreds of thousands of residents who have applied for or received benefits since 2016. The information potentially accessed includes names, addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, and some banking details. Governor Dan McKee has announced that the state is working with Deloitte and law enforcement to address the threat, with the system being taken offline to prevent further damage. Hackers have demanded a ransom, threatening to release the data if not paid. Residents are advised to monitor their accounts, change passwords, and consider credit freezes as precautionary measures. The state was first notified of the potential breach on December 5, and there is a high probability that sensitive information was stolen. The state is setting up a call center to assist affected individuals, with details to be released on Sunday, and will send letters to those whose data might have been compromised.