Adrian Johnson
TLDR:
- Columbus is offering free credit monitoring to anyone affected by the data leak
- Expanded lawsuit and Ohio support in response to the breach
In response to the data leak affecting Columbus residents, the city is offering two years of free credit monitoring from Experian to all residents and individuals impacted by the breach. This monitoring includes $1 million of protection against fraud and identity theft. The move comes after a cybersecurity expert identified leaked data on the dark web, exposing individuals such as police officers, city employees, court witnesses, and City Hall visitors. To access the free credit protection, individuals can visit columbus.gov/cyber or call 833-918-5161 with a specific code.
Additionally, a lawsuit against the city over its handling of the ransomware attack has been amended to include a broader group of potential plaintiffs. Two Columbus law firms filed the lawsuit on behalf of police officers, and it is now expanded to include anyone affected by the breach. The city continues its criminal investigation into the data theft, with support from the Ohio National Guard at the city’s request. Governor Mike DeWine mentioned that the Guard’s cybersecurity expertise is being utilized to address the situation.
