On August 14, 2024, the City of Flint, Michigan, experienced a disruptive cyber attack that impacted internal networks and public services. City officials, in collaboration with cybersecurity experts and the FBI, immediately began investigating the breach and implementing security protocols to contain the incident. Key city functions, including emergency services, remained operational, though network and phone systems were affected. This cyber attack followed a series of similar incidents across Michigan, prompting Flint to leverage shared resources and expertise to expedite recovery efforts.
The attack caused interruptions to the city’s online services, including bill payment systems and phone networks, although critical public safety operations, such as 911 dispatch, were unaffected. The city responded by setting up alternative phone contacts and urging residents to pay bills in person if needed. To accommodate affected residents, Flint implemented a one-month grace period on late fees and disconnections, allowing additional time for bill payments once online systems were restored.
Flint’s IT team and external partners worked continuously to recover and restore affected systems, ultimately rebuilding the network with advanced protections. As of late August, Mayor Sheldon Neeley reported that significant progress had been made, with a redesigned network installed, Next Generation firewalls activated, and most key data and servers restored. Public-facing systems, including water, sewer, and tax payment options, were gradually brought back online as recovery efforts advanced.
To strengthen Flint’s resilience, new cybersecurity measures were incorporated into the city’s infrastructure to mitigate future risks. The city prioritized transparency with the public, providing regular updates and emphasizing the importance of safeguarding resident data. With ongoing system testing and enhanced security protocols in place, Flint continues to make strides in fully restoring normal operations and maintaining a secure digital environment for residents.
Reference:
