Wood County's computer system hit by ransomware

Wood County's Information Technology Department was hit with a ransomware attack targeting their government computer network on Monday 9th of December 2024.

The incident was discovered when several computers in Wood County offices began malfunctioning, leading to widespread impacts across multiple county departments and connected systems. The commissioners' office contacted law enforcement and engaged nationally recognized third-party cybersecurity and forensics consultants. The county's IT department is now working alongside this cybersecurity team to test and analyze the affected systems. Firewalls were activated to limit the extent of the infiltration.

The impact has extended to various law enforcement operations. The Bowling Green Police Division, one of the connected departments, is unable to access some historical information, though this has been characterized as an "inconvenience" rather than a service disruption. Emergency responders connected to the Wood County Sheriff's Office CAD system have been affected, requiring dispatchers and jail staff to switch to paper-based operations.

Critical services remain operational. Fire and emergency resources, including 911 services, continue to function normally, and county office phones remain operational.

The number of affected individuals and any data stolen is not disclosed.