More than 6,500 people affected following Butler County cyberattack
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — Data from thousands of people in Butler County were exposed when hackers breached the government's computer network, according to the solicitor.
Glen Cummins felt uneasy learning his private information was out there.
"There's nothing sacred anymore," Cummins said. "It involves official things that you shouldn't have to question and it's unfortunate, that you do."
He said he recently received a letter in the mail from the county notifying him about the cyberattack.
"Apparently, somebody dropped the ball somewhere," Cummins said.
According to county leaders, federal agents alerted them to "suspicious activity" on the computer network on Oct. 2, 2023. They opened an investigation, and solicitor, Julie Graham told KDKA on Feb. 21, 2024, they informed 6,748 people affected.
Graham said those potentially impacted were people "involved with county business and/or court or law enforcement matters, including some employees."
The data included social security numbers, driver's license numbers, passport numbers, and state identification numbers, among others.
Graham said it took so long to notify people "due to the detailed analysis required to ensure accuracy… while meeting all its legal requirements."
"They need to have some much more aggressive standards for who has access and who has those capabilities," Cummins said.
At this time, Graham said the investigation is ongoing into who is potentially responsible.
In the meantime, they're in talks with the district attorney's office, and are working to prevent similar attacks in the future by taking steps like strengthening its network security.
Cummins hopes county leaders keep their promises.
"I didn't use to worry, but now I do. I mean I don't have a lot of money, but the little money I have I'd kind of like to hold onto," Cummins said.
If you were hit by the hack, you're advised to enroll in credit monitoring, and to track your account statements.
The county created a toll-free number for people to call: 833-918-1254. Be prepared to provide the following case number: B116747. You can reach out Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
