Cyber criminals publish at least some of RIBridges info to dark web

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — “Today the cyber criminals did in fact publish at least some of the RIBridges information and data files onto the dark web,” Gov. Dan McKee said.

It was still not clear what or whose information was published, but state officials said IT experts were working to find out.

“This is an ongoing investigation,” Chief Information Officer Brian Tardiff said. “We are working through multiple phases to include a third and external-party vendor to come in and validate that the system is secure so we will have Deloitte’s validation, the state’s validation, and the third party’s out of station.”

The cyberattack announced on Dec. 13 targeted the system used by the state to determine eligibility for various healthcare programs and benefits, including food stamps, Medicaid, and cash assistance.

RIBridges was run by the company Deloitte, who informed the governor’s office of the dark web release.

“Anyone who feels like they have been involved in the services that RIBridges provides, they should be aware that their information is at risk,” McKee said.

The governor previously announced that approximately 650,000 Rhode Islanders were impacted by the cyberattack.

“The chances of catching these guys is relatively remote, I would imagine, based on the industry that they are in,” McKee said. “But I don’t think that should stop us from finding out who they are and holding them accountable.”

The governor said anyone receiving SNAP benefits or who has been enrolled in cash assistance programs, the January payments are expected to show up on your EBT cards.

McKee added anyone whose information was leaked as a part of the breach will get free credit monitoring in a letter that residents are expected to receive in early January.

For more information on the breach and to access the call center, click here.