City offers free credit monitoring to cyberattack victims

TLDR:

• Columbus is offering free credit monitoring to all residents after a cyberattack
• The service includes $1 million of protection against fraud and identity theft

Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther announced that the city will provide free credit monitoring to all residents in response to a recent cyberattack that exposed personal data. The service, offered through Experian, includes $1 million of protection against fraud and identity theft for two years. Residents whose information was shared with the city or municipal court can sign up for the service by visiting the city’s website or calling a dedicated phone number with a provided code. The mayor emphasized the importance of protecting residents in light of the cyberattack and urged those who may have been impacted to take advantage of the free monitoring service.

The city’s investigation into the cyberattack is ongoing, with assistance requested from the Ohio Cyber Reserve, a team of cybersecurity experts. Columbus chief technology officer Sam Orth sought help from the Reserve to address the complex and rapidly changing situation. The FBI is also involved in the investigation to uncover the extent of the cyberattack and prevent future incidents. Mayor Ginther will hold a news conference to provide updates on the cybersecurity issue and ensure transparency in communicating with the public regarding the city’s response and findings.