FBI Probes Network Disruption at San Bernardino Sheriff's Dept.
FBI and the Department of Homeland Security get involved
The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department experienced a "network disruption" to their electronic systems on Friday and has referred the problem to the FBI and Department of Homeland Security for investigation. The disruption, which was first detected on Friday, has not endangered the deputies, nor has it impacted the agency's operations.
The incident is being treated as a serious matter, and officials have declined to explain what the disruption entailed, citing an ongoing investigation. The FBI and Department of Homeland Security have been brought in to investigate the matter, and the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department has stated that they are working closely with information technology staff and third-party forensic specialists to investigate the incident.
Cyberattack against the agency?
The County immediately secured the network upon discovering the incident, which may suggest that the network was breached. While it is not clear whether there was a cyberattack against the agency, the involvement of the FBI and Department of Homeland Security indicates that authorities are treating the incident as a potential cyberattack.
The Sheriff's Department has emphasized that the disruption has not impacted its operations and that its deputies have not been endangered by it. However, the incident highlights the growing threat of cyberattacks against law enforcement agencies, which can disrupt critical operations and compromise sensitive data.
The disruption to the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department's electronic systems is a reminder of the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks against law enforcement agencies.