Union County Data Breach: Guidance for Residents Affected by Hack

[johny899]

Have you ever thought that you could completely trust your private information with your local government? Well, here's a story about Union County, Ohio, where a ransomware attack occurred that resulted in the compromising of private information of tens of thousands of people. Now you're thinking, 'I should check my records.."

What Happened?​

According to Union County officials, a hacker hacked into the county's computer system from May 6 - May 18, 2025. The private information of at least 45, 487 persons was extracted, which included:

• Names and dates of birth.
• Social Security Numbers and Drivers License Numbers.
• Bank account and credit card information.
• Fingerprints, passport number, and some medical information.

County administrator Bill Narducci described this as a ransomware attack for Union County. It's important to say that while there has been no evidence yet of the compromised information being used, it has been unsettling experience.

County Response​

The county moved promptly to develop solutions:

• Confirm the data and alert residents potentially affected
• Install new cybersecurity software
• Reset passwords for all users
• Remove outside access to prevent another incident

Narducci noted that it is a priority to protect the residents' data and it is trying to quickly enhance security.

Resident Recommendation​

Union County residents are advised to be cautious. Authorities are recommending the following advice:

• Regularly check your bank and credit card statements
• Use free credit reporting services to watch for identity theft
• Report suspicious activity to your police department or to the Attorney General

Unsure of what to do? There is also a help line at 1-833-919-4739 for anyone who needs help or needs advice.

Why This Matters​

This is to remind you that any organization, including a local government, could be hacked. Protecting your information online should not just be an issue for large companies, have you considered how secure your digital information really is? It's probably good to be "cautious" vs. wishing later that you were cautious.

Cities such as Columbus are also making investments in cybersecurity as a result of the attacks that they have been exposed to in the past. The most important takeaway is that the protection of your personal data is extremely important, and being cautious does make a difference.

If you happen to live in Union County, be sure to check your information, monitor for anything unusual, and maybe keep that assistance line handy.