Cyberattack Disrupts Internet Services at Delaware Libraries, Hackers Demand $1 Million Ransom
Delaware's 35 public libraries suffered a major cyberattack on Friday, September 20, 2024, when hackers from the ransomware group RansomHub seized control of the virtual servers that manage the libraries' public-use computers and internet services. The hackers demanded a $1 million ransom to restore access, but Delaware Division of Libraries Director Annie Norman has refused to pay, opting instead to rebuild the system with assistance from Microsoft and the Delaware Department of Technology and Information. The attack has resulted in the shutdown of computer labs and the loss of internet services statewide, affecting essential community resources, including printing services and programs such as ESL classes.
The outage has caused significant inconvenience to residents who rely on library services for internet access, schoolwork, and other community programs. Many libraries have also reported disruptions to their phone, scanning, and fax services. Despite the attack, libraries have remained open for other services, and there are assurances that patron information remains secure. However, with recovery efforts still in their early stages, it’s unclear how long it will take to fully restore these critical services.