An essential service is alive and well again in St. Paul after a summer cyberattack.
Public internet access has been restored at all St. Paul Public Library locations and recreation centers after the city initiated a full system shutdown in response to a July ransomware attack, the city announced Thursday.
“The restoration of our public internet network took an incredible amount of work and marks a huge milestone in our recovery,” said Mayor Melvin Carter in a news release. “For so many of our residents, this connection is a lifeline to work, education, applying for jobs, and seeking opportunity.”
In late July, Carter declared a state of emergency following a days-long cyberattack on the city’s internet-based computer networks that led officials to call in the FBI and Gov. Tim Walz to enlist the Minnesota National Guard’s cybersecurity experts.
In response to the attack, city officials conducted a precautionary “complete network shutdown” of its Wi-Fi and internet-based systems, from public computer terminals within the St. Paul libraries to key networks at City Hall. The move disrupted city services, though officials said it was necessary to stop the hackers from doing more damage.
Strengthened safeguards
As of Thursday, city staff had restored certain systems, including public internet access, after they thoroughly tested, validated and secured them with modern safeguards.
“Reliable internet in our libraries has never been more important,” said Deputy Library Director Rebecca Ryan in the city’s statement.
Thousands of St. Paul residents rely on the city’s internet service to stay connected to family and seniors, to do research for schoolwork and to apply for jobs and complete training.
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In addition to restoring internet service, strengthened safeguards were put in place including: Segmented and secure public internet traffic that is entirely separated from the city’s internal networks, simpler access with fewer steps and logins and an open network that ensures residents seeking public access can safely access it.
“Whether it’s a teen connecting after school or a family using our recreation centers together, restoring public internet access ensures its available where community happens,” said Parks and Recreation Director Andy Rodriguez. “This is a critical step forward for equity across our neighborhoods.”
This week the city also launched its new permitting and licensing platform, PAULIE. Other restored systems include financial and payment platforms, geographic information systems, telephones and email, legislative and public meeting systems.
City officials said no ransom was ever paid to the cyberattackers, who posted some of the hacked data online. Investigators said the information was not sensitive.
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