It is ransomware

After a week-long investigation led by the city’s IT department with assistance from outside cybersecurity experts, including the FBI and the Ohio National Guard Cyber ​​Reserve Unit, the cyber incident that brought down the city of Cleveland’s IT systems was confirmed to be a ransomware attack.

The nature of the attack remains under investigation as we work to restore our systems. We cannot provide any further information at this time. Although the threat has been identified and contained, it remains a sensitive and ongoing issue.

In the last six months, attacks of this kind have increased by over 50 percent, clearly demonstrating that no company is immune to the costs and consequences of its activities in the digital world.

We continue to take this matter very seriously and are working diligently to assess the full extent of the attack on our systems. We have taken immediate action to validate our cybersecurity measures and are working to fully restore our systems as quickly as possible.

On Monday, June 17, 2024, the town hall will be closed to the public. Despite the temporary closure of City Hall, essential city services such as garbage collection, recreation centers, airport operations, Cleveland Public Power, and Water and Water Conservation Authority are operating as normal to continue to ensure the welfare and safety of our citizens.

Residents requesting birth or death certificates are encouraged to submit applications online… through the Ohio Department of Health at https://odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/vital-statistics/how-to-order-certificates. If residents prefer to request a copy in person, Parma and Lakewood city halls can assist with birth certificates for births that occurred in Ohio.

We appreciate the community’s understanding and cooperation during this critical time as we work to fully restore operations and protect the integrity of our digital systems.