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FORT DODGE, Iowa (KWWL) – A ransomware attack forced an Iowa corn and soybean farmer co-op to take their computer systems offline.
The Related press reports someone close to the “New Cooperative” says it has created workarounds to receive grain and distribute animal feed. The cooperative said in a statement to the PA that the attack had been “successfully controlled” and that it had notified law enforcement.
The attack struck just as the Iowa corn and soybean harvest begins. “Nouvelle Coopérative” did not say whether it had paid a ransom. A security researcher said the criminals demanded $ 5.9 million.
Security researchers believe the hacking group, BlackMatter, may be a revamped version of the DarkSide ransomware syndicate that disrupted the Colonial Pipeline last spring and then announced its disbandment. BlackMatter claims on its dark website that it doesn’t target critical infrastructure, although many claim “New Cooperative” is exactly that because it provides feed for livestock.
Republican Congresswoman Ashley Hinson, of Iowa 1st District, would agree such operations are vital.
“Agricultural infrastructure is critical infrastructure and the administration must send a strong message that any attempt to hack US systems and disrupt our supply chain will not be tolerated,” Hinson said in a statement.
Hinson added that she was monitoring the situation closely and that her team were ready to help if needed.
Read Hinson’s full statement below:
“I am closely monitoring the cyberattack on New Cooperative by Russian-linked hackers. These continued hacks are a threat to our food security and must be taken seriously. Farm infrastructure is critical infrastructure and the administration must send a strong message that any attempt to hack into U.S. systems and disrupt our supply chain will not be tolerated. I commend New Cooperative for its swift response and continue to be in contact with key agricultural stakeholders affected. My team is ready to help if needed.
MP Ashley Hinson
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
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