Hackers hit Rhode Island benefits system in major cyberattack. Personal data could be released soon

Rhode Island's governor says cybercriminals could release personal data of many in the state as early as this upcoming week in a major cyberattack that hit the state’s online system for health and human services benefits. The state is urging residents to take action to protect their personal information. Anyone who has been involved in Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program known as SNAP and other programs such as Rhode Island Work may be impacted. The state has set up a toll-free hotline for information about the breach and how to protect personal data. The hackers are demanding a ransom.