Bartlett, Tennessee, Targeted by Lockbit3 Ransomware Group

Bartlett, Tennessee, a city in Shelby County, has been targeted by the ransomware group Lockbit3, according to a dark web leak site. The city operates in the government sector and its website is https://www.cityofbartlett.org/. The attack on Bartlett is not the first in the region, as Collierville, another Tennessee town, was also hit by a ransomware attack in 2019.

Victim Profile

Bartlett is a city in Shelby County, Tennessee, with a population of approximately 57,000 residents. The city is known for its historic downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and businesses. Bartlett is also home to several parks and recreational facilities, including the Bartlett Parks and Recreation Department, which offers a range of programs and activities for residents.

Vulnerabilities and Impact

The Lockbit3 ransomware group has claimed responsibility for the attack on Bartlett's systems. Ransomware attacks typically involve encrypting the victim's data and demanding a ransom to restore access. The impact of such attacks can be significant, leading to data loss, downtime, and potential financial losses for the victim.

Previous Ransomware Attacks in the Region

The region has seen other ransomware attacks in the past. In 2019, the town of Collierville was hit by a ransomware attack, which compromised sensitive patient information at a local hospital. The attack on KMJ Health Solutions, a technology vendor, allowed hackers to gain access to information stored on one of KMJ's servers, potentially exposing the protected health information of patients who received OB-GYN services at Regional One between November 2014 and November 2023.

Mitigation Strategies

While the specifics of Bartlett's vulnerabilities and the attack itself are not detailed in the available information, it is generally recommended for organizations to implement robust cybersecurity measures, such as regular software updates, strong passwords, and employee training, to mitigate the risk of ransomware attacks.

Sources

• City of Bartlett
• Progent: Memphis Ransomware Infection Remote Data Recovery
• Action News 5: Town of Collierville falls victim to ransomware attack
• Beckers Hospital Review: Vendor ransomware attack exposes patient data at Tennessee hospital
• Commercial Appeal: FBI investigating after Collierville hit by ransomware attack