Hoboken Gives 'Cyberattack' Update: Some City Offices Can Only Be Reached By Phone

HOBOKEN, NJ — Want to reach certain offices in the city of Hoboken?

You may have to let your fingers do the walking.

After the city announced on Wednesday that its systems had been hacked in a "cyberattack," they gave an update saying residents must reach certain offices by phone, not email.

Hoboken residents received a message shortly after 10 a.m. last Wednesday saying City Hall offices are closed as a result of a ransomware attack in the early hours.

According to the FBI, "Ransomware is a type of malicious software—or malware—that prevents you from accessing your computer files, systems, or networks and demands you pay a ransom for their return. Ransomware attacks can cause costly disruptions to operations and the loss of critical information and data."

Late Sunday, the city sent the following update:

The city of Hoboken continues to work in partnership with federal law enforcement, the Hoboken Police Department (HPD), the City’s IT Division, and third-party IT specialists to investigate and restore services following the Nov. 26 cyber attack.

The majority of services for residents remain available online, including purchasing Temporary No Parking signs, parking permits, and other services provided by third-party vendors. The Hoboken Parking Utility service window will be open regular hours starting on Monday, Dec. 2, and will be accepting cash or check payments.

All parking regulations and enforcement, including street sweeping, are in effect as of Monday.

Residents are encouraged to contact City departments and divisions by phone, as some city systems including email and Wi-Fi are still being restored.

• To contact the City Clerk’s Office, please call (201) 420-2000 ext. 2000
• To contact the Office of Constituent Services, please call (201) 420-2000 ex.1311
• To contact the Hoboken Parking Utility, please call (201) 653-1919 x8001
• To contact the Division of Housing, please call (201) 420-2000 x 5203
• To contact the Division of Health, please call (201) 420-2375
• To contact the Division of Sanitation, please call (201) 420-2000 x4000
• To contact the Division of Engineering or Water Utility, please call (201) 420-2000 x8028
• To contact the Zoning Office, please call (201) 420-2000 x 3100
• To contact the Division of Recreation, please call (201) 420-2000 Ext. 5002
• To contact the Office of Senior Services, please call (201) 420-2054
• For other City departments, please visit the City's website at hobokennj.gov for phone numbers or call the general city information line at (201) 420-2000.

Updates on city services and the ongoing investigation will be provided as new information becomes available.