Media Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 2, 2024

Jackson County responds to potential ransomware attack affecting IT systems

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County has identified significant disruptions within its IT systems, potentially attributable to a ransomware attack. Early indications suggest operational inconsistencies across its digital infrastructure and certain systems have been rendered inoperative while others continue to function as normal.

Systems impacted so far include tax payments and online property, marriage license and inmate searches. As a result, the Assessment, Collection and Recorder of Deeds offices at all County locations will be closed until further notice.

It’s important to note that the Kansas City Board of Elections and Jackson County Board of Elections are not impacted by the system outage.

The County has promptly notified law enforcement and enlisted the expertise of IT security contractors to assist in the investigation and remediation of the situation. The integrity of our digital network and the confidentiality of resident data is the County’s top priority. At this time, we do not have any information suggesting that any data has been compromised. We are currently in the early stages of our diagnostic procedures, working closely with our cybersecurity partners to thoroughly explore all possibilities and identify the root cause of the situation. While the investigation considers ransomware as a potential cause, comprehensive analyses are underway to confirm the exact nature of the disruption.

Immediate actions have been taken to secure systems against further compromise as our teams work diligently to restore full operational capacity to impacted services. The County recognizes the impact these closures have on its residents. We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding during this time and will provide more information as it becomes available.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 7, 2024

Assessment, Collection and Recorder of Deeds offices closed tomorrow

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County continues to demonstrate significant strides in the ongoing restoration efforts of its network infrastructure in the wake of a recent ransomware attack. While our dedicated team diligently works toward reinstating normal service operations, the County must close its Assessment, Collection and Recorder of Deeds offices to the public tomorrow, Monday, April 8.

The closure of these offices is intended to support the ongoing recovery efforts led by our IT professionals, prioritizing the security and stability of our systems. We recognize the impact this decision may have on our residents and want to assure them that it was made with careful consideration. Our commitment remains steadfast in swiftly resolving this situation and minimizing any inconvenience to our community.

The County extends its gratitude to the community for their continued patience and understanding during this challenging time. As information becomes available, updates regarding the progress of restoration and the reopening of the affected offices will be promptly communicated.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 3, 2024

County offices remain closed this week during ongoing ransomware recovery

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County, in conjunction with federal law enforcement authorities and contracted cybersecurity specialists, continues its investigation into the origin of a ransomware attack that disrupted multiple county services early Tuesday morning. Measures are actively in place to prevent further compromise to the county’s network, as the incident response team implements a thorough yet cautious approach to restoring systems to full operational capacity within a secure environment. As a result of this methodical approach, the County has decided to close its Assessment, Collection and Recorder of Deeds offices for the remainder of this week.

“There is an urgent need to reinstate the county's core functions to minimize inconvenience for residents,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. "We are actively exploring every avenue to ensure our residents are not negatively impacted by the closures.”

As stated yesterday, the impact on the county does not include taxpayers’ personal and sensitive financial information. Such data is hosted completely outside of the county’s network and is securely managed and stored by our trusted partner, PayIt.

Due to the sensitivity of this security breach, the County's capacity to disclose information is limited. However, updates will be provided as they become available and deemed appropriate.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 2, 2024

Jackson County Executive declares state of emergency in response to likely ransomware attack

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. has issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency as a proactive measure against a potential ransomware attack affecting various county systems.

“The investments we’ve made in our cybersecurity infrastructure have significantly reduced our vulnerability to such attacks and have fortified our ability to respond effectively,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “Our IT Department’s prompt detection and response underline the value of our ongoing commitment to cybersecurity.”

The potential security breach is being thoroughly investigated, and while the county has leveraged its strong cybersecurity defenses to minimize impact, the situation stands as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness.

“This incident reinforces why it is critical to maintain our emergency reserves and why these funds are indispensable in times of crisis,” White said. “Allocating resources for robust cybersecurity measures is not only about protecting our data but also about safeguarding the public trust. Today more than ever, it is clear that such investments are essential and prudent.”

On March 25, the Jackson County Legislature authorized the use of $1,006,228 from the county’s emergency reserve fund to pay for today’s special election regarding a new stadium sales tax. County Executive White requested that the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals cover the costs of the unplanned and unbudgeted expense based on the significant benefits the proposed sales tax would bring to the teams, as well as the multi-million investment made by the organizations in the campaign for the sales tax. The teams have not responded to the request.

The executive order facilitates necessary financial flexibility to address the current emergency, demonstrating a judicious and responsive governance. County Executive White has also mandated immediate action from county staff to ensure the protection of resident data and the continuation of critical services. A copy of the executive order is attached.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 15, 2024

Jackson County announces successful network restoration and soft launch reopening of key offices following significant ransomware attack

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Following a significant ransomware attack that disrupted operations nearly two weeks ago, Jackson County is pleased to announce the restoration of essential services and the soft launch reopening of key county offices. This restoration was made possible by the extraordinary dedication and professionalism of our county’s IT staff and cybersecurity partners.

“The scale of the attack was massive, making the rapid recovery a remarkable achievement by our IT team,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “Their expertise and relentless hard work have minimized disruption and exemplified resilience in the face of such challenges.”

Beginning tomorrow, Tuesday, April 16, Jackson County will softly reopen the Assessment, Collection and Recorder of Deeds departments with the following procedures:

• Assessment: By appointment only. Prior scheduled appointments disrupted by the network outage are being rescheduled as a priority. Please note, walk-in services will be available starting Monday, April 22.
• Collection: Residents are encouraged to utilize our secure online payment options available through the myJacksonCounty portal to avoid wait times. The collection and assessment departments will offer new weekend hours from 8:00 a.m. – Noon on Saturday, April 20 and every Saturday in May.
• Recorder of Deeds: Property records and marriage license applications are available online to ensure convenient access for our residents.

“This soft launch is a testament to our commitment to serving the community's needs with innovation and dedication,” said County Administrator Troy Schulte. “The swift recovery not only demonstrates our ability to overcome significant adversities but also ensures continued excellence in service.”

For the foreseeable future, residents are urged to refrain from in-person visits unless absolutely necessary and to take advantage of our secure online services. The County deeply appreciates the community's understanding and patience during this challenging period. As we progress in restoring normal operations, we respectfully ask for your continued patience and cooperation.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 19, 2024

Jackson County announces new office hours for essential services following successful soft launch re-opening after ransomware attack

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County is pleased to announce the successful implementation of its soft launch reopening following a recent ransomware attack that disrupted operations for nearly two weeks. Despite the challenges posed by the criminal cyberattack, the county’s efforts have resulted in a smooth and effective transition back to operational status.

“The reopening process has been carefully planned and implemented to minimize the disruption to services while ensuring the security and integrity of our systems,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “I am so proud of the resilience, dedication and teamwork shown by all county associates that allowed us to restore essential services to our community. Our commitment to providing exceptional service remains unwavering and we assure residents that every effort is being made to not only return to normal operations swiftly and securely, but to also improve the services we provide to our community.”

The county is asking for local media’s assistance in making the public aware of the following protocol that has been put in place to reduce customer wait times and improve the customer experience:

Saturday Extended Office Hours:

• Dates: April 20, May 4, 11, & 18
• Time: 8:00 a.m. – Noon
• Walk-ins will be accommodated on a first-come first-serve basis and will be scheduled for a same-day appointment.
  
  

Beginning Monday, April 22, weekday office hours will be as follows:

• From 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., services will be reserved for senior citizens, physically disabled individuals and previously scheduled appointments.
• From 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the office will be open to all scheduled appointments, with walk-ins accommodated based on availability.

Appointment scheduling is conveniently accessible through the Qless app, which is available for free download on both Apple and Android devices.

Residents who need to make tax payments are encouraged to use the county’s secure online system available through the myJacksonCounty portal to avoid wait times. Safe and secure payments can also be made by phone by calling (816) 608-7332.

The County deeply appreciates the community's understanding and patience during this challenging period. As we progress in restoring normal operations, we respectfully ask for continued patience and cooperation.

Media Note: Graphics outlining the new office hours and procedures are attached for your use.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 10, 2024

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County officials today report significant progress in the ongoing efforts to recover from a criminal ransomware attack. Cybersecurity experts are methodically rebuilding network systems to ensure a smooth restoration process that avoids setbacks and safeguards critical data. The recovery process has been meticulously planned to prioritize the restoration of essential services.

As part of this effort, the County is tentatively preparing for a soft launch of the reopening of the Assessment, Collection and Recorder of Deeds offices to the public, scheduled for Tuesday, April 16. This phased approach marks a significant step toward resuming normal operations while minimizing disruptions during the transition to full restoration.

"We are committed to ensuring a smooth and secure recovery process for our community," said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. "The soft launch of key offices is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our cybersecurity team who have been working around the clock to address the challenges posed by this criminal cyberattack. We appreciate the patience and understanding of our residents as we work diligently to restore normal operations."

While the soft launch signifies a positive step forward, officials acknowledge that there is still work to be done. In the coming days, more details will be announced on the process for residents to receive assistance effectively and quickly during this transitional period. The safety and security of residents' data remain the County’s top priority and every effort is being made to ensure a smooth and secure restoration process.

Residents are encouraged to stay updated on further announcements regarding the recovery and re-opening process via the news media, county’s website and social media channels.

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