County Issues Notice Pertaining to Potential Impact to People’s Personal Information
Published 4:56 PM Friday, August 15, 2025
In a significant development following a ransomware attack earlier this summer, Mower County has issued a notice regarding the potential impact on residents’ personal information. This announcement comes as the County works diligently to restore its systems and ensure the security of sensitive data.
Background of the Incident
On June 18, Mower County detected ransomware infiltrating its computer network. The immediate response involved launching an investigation with the help of cybersecurity experts and data forensics consultants. Their primary goal was to secure the network and assess the extent of the breach. The County also promptly notified federal law enforcement agencies to assist in the investigation.
Nature of the Data Compromised
As the investigation unfolded, it became clear that cybercriminals had accessed and potentially exfiltrated certain data from the County’s network. Alarmingly, this included protected health information related to individuals who have received services from Mower County’s Health and Human Services Department. The County is currently conducting a thorough review to determine the specific information that may have been compromised, as well as the identities and locations of those affected.
Notification to Affected Individuals
In a release issued on Friday afternoon, County Administrator Matthew Verdick emphasized the importance of transparency in this situation. The County has made a public announcement on its website, providing information to individuals whose data may have been impacted. Residents can find this notice at Mower County’s official website.
As the review progresses, the County plans to send written notifications to affected individuals and will offer complimentary credit monitoring services where appropriate. This proactive measure aims to help residents safeguard their personal information and mitigate any potential risks.
Commitment to Data Security
Matthew Verdick reassured the public of the County’s commitment to maintaining the privacy and security of the information it manages. “The privacy and security of the information we maintain is very important to us,” he stated. The County is dedicated to investing in internal processes, tools, and resources to minimize the risk of future security incidents.
Ongoing Monitoring and Precautionary Measures
Mower County continues to closely monitor its systems, data, and network access. In light of the incident, the County is evaluating and implementing changes to strengthen its cybersecurity measures. As a precaution, officials encourage potentially impacted individuals to take proactive steps to protect their health information. This includes regularly reviewing account statements, obtaining free credit reports, and scrutinizing health insurance Explanation of Benefits (EOB) forms for any unauthorized or suspicious activity. Residents are also advised to report any unusual activity to law enforcement.
Conclusion
The ransomware attack on Mower County serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by public institutions in the digital age. As the County navigates the aftermath of this incident, its commitment to transparency, security, and the protection of residents’ personal information remains paramount. By taking swift action and implementing robust security measures, Mower County aims to restore public trust and safeguard against future cyber threats.