The News-Review, Roseburg’s venerable daily newspaper, encountered a significant disruption as it missed its first print edition in years due to a ransomware attack targeting Lotus Media Group. This attack not only affected The News-Review but also impacted five local radio stations under the group’s purview, causing a halt in operations and locking employees out of crucial systems, including email and print design tools. Managing editor Sanne Godfrey promptly reported the incident to law enforcement, acknowledging the likelihood of irretrievable data loss, particularly concerning the paper’s fonts and templates. Despite the setback, Godfrey expressed determination to rebuild operations from scratch, highlighting the dedication of the entire staff in adapting to the new challenges and striving to maintain their commitment to delivering news coverage to the community.
With the print edition disrupted, The News-Review faces an unprecedented challenge in maintaining its role as a reliable source of local news. Godfrey emphasized the need for adjustments in operations to cope with the aftermath of the attack, anticipating that the paper’s appearance may differ temporarily as the team works on rebuilding essential systems. Despite the adversity, the staff remains resilient, demonstrating their commitment to continue reporting stories to their readership as efficiently as possible.
The ransomware attack presents a unique obstacle for The News-Review, reminiscent of the disruptions caused by external factors like the 2019 snowstorm, which also led to a missed print edition. However, unlike natural disasters, cyber attacks pose a different kind of threat, with the potential for long-term consequences and challenges in restoring compromised systems. Nevertheless, the team’s proactive response and adaptability underscore their determination to overcome the setback and maintain their vital role in delivering news and information to the Roseburg community.
As The News-Review navigates through the aftermath of the ransomware attack, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the increasing vulnerability of media organizations to cyber threats. With the reliance on digital infrastructure for news production and dissemination, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures becomes imperative to safeguard against future disruptions. Despite the current challenges, the resilience and dedication exhibited by The News-Review’s staff reflect a commitment to upholding their journalistic mission and serving their readership with integrity and professionalism.
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