Bernalillo Pays $82,000 to Resolve Ransomware Attack

The town of Bernalillo approved an $82,000 offer to hackers to resolve a ransomware attack that began disrupting municipal services on October 16. The attack impacted the town’s Motor Vehicle Division office, police body cameras, and online water bill payment systems. Although most services have been restored, residents must still pay water bills in person or by mail.

Bernalillo made the payment after consulting outside experts, including those from New Mexico State University. The attack disrupted key municipal services, forcing residents to use alternative payment methods for water bills. The payment was made in an effort to end the ongoing cyberattack.