New federal website offers free resources for preventing ransomware attacks

 A recent article in Cybercrime Magazine predicted that in 2021 a ransomware attack will happen every 11 seconds. Ransomware is an ever-evolving form of malicious software (malware) designed to encrypt information on a device, rendering any files and the systems that rely on them unusable. Ransomware attacks, in which payment is demanded from these cybercriminals before unlocking their files, have been surging of late.

New federal resources

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA) has established a dedicated .gov website for ransomware resources at StopRansomware.gov. There is a wealth of knowledge available here – curated from various government agencies and departments – including fact sheets, training, webinars, etc. It is a service provided by the United States government and thus all of the information is free and available on demand.  

Insurance Trust cybersecurity resources

Members of the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust (LMCIT) also have access to the eRisk Hub by NetDiligence. The eRisk Hub is a private, web-based portal containing information and technical resources that can assist members in the prevention of losses due to network attacks, cybersecurity threats, and privacy breaches. The eRisk Hub can also provide support in the timely reporting and recovery of losses if an incident occurs.

If you believe your city has already experienced a data breach or other cyber/privacy liability, contact LMCIT claims staff immediately at (800) 925-1122.

Submitted by: Julie Jelen, Loss Control Consultant

Let the water fountains flow

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has announced that water fountains everywhere have the green light to get back up and running. In this piece I will highlight the MDH’s main reasoning and research behind this recent decision, and how this may impact municipalities.

Heat-related illness risk                        

We are about halfway through the summertime and temperatures don’t look to be dropping anytime soon. It’s no secret that water fountains all over Minnesota are placed where people need to be hydrated the most including outdoor parks, athletic fields, places of employment, etc. MDH officials say citizens are at a much greater risk of a heat-related illness and dehydration than catching COVID-19 from the fountain surface.

These resources can help you prepare for extreme heat:

• Review tips for preventing heat related illness and identifying early warning signs:
• LMCIT blog: Protecting workers from heat-related illness
• LMCIT blog: Workers feeling the heat?

• You can use this heat forecast map and tool to plan your weekly workplan:
• National Integrated Heat Health Information System: Heat Forecasts
• Heat Vulnerability in Minnesota Assessment Tool

Videos and graphics: Surface cleaning still recommended

The Department of Health reported citizens are at extremely low risk of contracting COVID-19 from touching the same water fountain as someone else. They also reiterate that COVID-19 is not found in the drinking water dispensed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still is suggesting frequent cleaning of surfaces especially in shared and public places, as before.

Refer to the following information for cleaning/disinfection information:

• LMCIT blog: Make a plan for cleaning and disinfecting workplace surfaces
• LMCIT blog: Cleaning and disinfecting for COVID-19 virus

Address water quality risks first

When finally reactivating your city’s water fountains there are some things to consider before making sure the water is clean and trustworthy. When water fountains or other fixtures are shut off for an extended period, there is much more of a chance of water quality problems. A common example would be the build-up of bacteria such as Legionella.

Here is some guidance for safely reopening water fountains after shutdown:

• LMCIT Blog: Reopening building facilities with caution
• MDH: Resuming Use of Water Fountains: COVID-19

Submitted by: Michael Neff, Loss Control Consultant