The Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General was the victim of a ransomware attack. The attack has reportedly impeded several agency functions, including access to archived emails, files, and systems that are essential for pursuing cases. However, the office has stated that it does not anticipate criminal prosecutions, investigations or civil proceedings to be hindered solely due to this cyber incident. 

At this time, it is not immediately apparent how the attack is or is not affecting other county courts or the state appellate courts.

A statement from the office reveals that the “interruption was caused by an outsider encrypting files in an effort to force the office to make a payment to restore operations.” That same statement asserts that no ransom payment has been issued. Furthermore, an active investigation has begun with other agencies.

The office has not yet revealed how this attack occurred or if any sensitive data has been compromised.