A recent cyberattack has targeted a third-party service provider responsible for collecting overdue court fines in Manitoba, Canada. The province reported the incident on December 5, 2024, confirming that while the attack occurred, there is no evidence to suggest that personal information of Manitobans was compromised. The attack, described as a “cyber incident,” was swiftly reported to law enforcement agencies, the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, and the Manitoba Ombudsman. However, specific details regarding the timing or nature of the attack remain undisclosed.
In response to the breach, the service provider has enlisted the help of a leading cybersecurity firm to assess the situation. The cybersecurity firm will conduct a forensic review of the attack to identify any further vulnerabilities or exposure. While no personal data has been confirmed as compromised, Manitoba Justice stated that they are taking proactive steps to mitigate any potential damage and contain the incident.
The cyberattack has affected the processing of overdue court fines, but the department is still determining the full extent of those impacted. Manitobans with outstanding fines can still visit any court in person or contact the province’s fine collections unit for payment details. The authorities assured the public that they are taking necessary steps to secure the system and safeguard data.
The province’s collaboration with the service provider and law enforcement aims to ensure that further breaches are prevented. While the scope of the attack is still being assessed, officials remain focused on protecting personal information and preventing future incidents. The situation continues to be monitored, with updates expected as more information becomes available.
Reference: