PROVIDENCE, R.I. — A significant cyber incident has potentially compromised personal data belonging to numerous residents of Rhode Island. Governor Daniel McKee alerted the public that sensitive information related to health and human services benefits could be at risk as early as next week due to this cyberattack.

Reports indicate that cybercriminals are requesting a ransom, although officials have not shared specific details regarding these demands.

The state is advising residents to take necessary precautions to safeguard their personal data, which may include sensitive details such as names, addresses, birth dates, Social Security numbers, and specific banking information.

Governor McKee noted on Saturday that individuals involved in various assistance programs including Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, the Childcare Assistance Program, Rhode Island Works, Long-term Services and Supports, the At HOME Cost Share Program, and health insurance acquired through HealthSource RI could be affected by this breach.

The affected online system, known as RIBridges, was taken offline on Friday after the state received a notification from its vendor, Deloitte, about a significant security threat. The vendor has confirmed a “high probability” that a cybercriminal has accessed files containing personally identifiable information from RIBridges.

To assist affected residents, the state has partnered with Experian to establish a toll-free hotline. This hotline will provide information regarding the data breach and offer guidance on steps individuals can take to protect their information.