Madison County Government Pays Ransom with Insurance Cash

Ransomware attacks are on the rise across the country, with hackers reportedly extracting $209 million in ransom payments in the first three months of 2016. Madison County fell victim to a ransomware attack on Saturday, shutting down nearly all country services. Following the attack, commissioners gathered in an emergency session to discuss their options. Although the full implications of the attack remain unknown, and no personal information appears to have been released, the commissioners issued a unanimous vote to pay the ransom, but they are still hoping to find way to fight back. “We’re following the directions of our insurance carrier,” said Madison County Commissioner, John Richwine. While he did not reveal the amount paid to the cybercriminals, Richwine explained that it was not as much as one might think, and is covered by the county’s cyber insurance policy with Travelers after a deductible is paid.