Hackers demand ransom after Westmount targeted in cyber attack: report

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The city of Westmount was targeted by a cyberattack over the weekend that caused a computer outage after multiple servers were affected.

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In a statement on its website, the city said its IT department would work with outside companies to “determine the scope of the attack and how to rebuild the system as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

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A high-profile hacker group has claimed responsibility for the cyberattack, threatening to release stolen data from the city unless a ransom is paid within two weeks, according to a La Presse report published Monday.

“Unfortunately, cyberattacks are becoming more prevalent and sophisticated in our society,” Mayor Christina M. Smith said in a statement. We are not completely exempt from the sad reality.” “We want to reassure all Westmounters that our team is seriously and diligently working to improve this situation and will continue to keep residents informed.

The city will provide an update as soon as possible, but in the meantime, the public said, “We take data security very seriously and our number one priority is to protect the information of our residents and employees.” I’m pressing to make sure.

Due to the attack, city officials are unable to receive emails. If citizens need to be contacted, they will be asked to do so by phone or by visiting a service location.