Ransomware attack on Chippewa Indian tribe knocks out computer systems

The Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians in Michigan suffered a ransomware attack that put multiple computer and phone systems out of operation for an indefinite period. 

 

In a social media post, Sault Tribe chairman Austin Lowes said that the tribal administration was a victim of a ransomware attack that affected the tribe’s internal network.

 

“On Sunday morning, the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians suffered a ransomware attack. This attack impacted multiple computer and phone systems across tribal administration, including the casinos, health centers and various businesses. In response, the tribe has had to temporarily close many departments and businesses,” said Chairman Lowes.

 

While the administrators hope to restore the affected systems within a week, there is no definite time frame for resuming normal operations.

 

“We understand the disruption this is causing to many members’ and employees’ lives and are working diligently to resolve this issue as quickly as possible.

 

“We also understand there are many questions. The Board of Directors is being updated as new information is available, but due to the ongoing investigation there is little more they can share at this time and we ask for your patience and understanding.

 

“The tribal government will remain open in a limited capacity to serve our members to the best of our ability despite this incident,” Lowes added.

 

In another incident update, Lowes said that the ransomware attack also affected the tribe’s healthcare systems significantly. “A Sault Tribe data security incident has impacted Sault Tribe Health Division’s ability to provide comprehensive medical services,” he said.

 

All non-emergency and scheduled appointments at the medical office for primary care, radiology and the Dental Department have been cancelled, however, they are still accepting emergency walk-ins.

 

The ransomware attack also affected daily operations at five Kewadin Casinos locations and the tribe said “all gaming operations were halted until further notice.”

 

At the time of publishing, no known hacker group has claimed responsibility for the cyber attack on the tribe, and tribal officials have not shared any details on who is behind the attack or whether they received a ransom demand.