Russian Cyber Attacks On Businesses 'Imminent': RI Sec. Of State

PROVIDENCE, RI — In the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Rhode Island's Secretary of State is urging local businesses to step up cybersecurity.

"Last week, my office received unclassified briefings from U.S. Department of Homeland Security officials who cautioned us that Russian cyberattacks on U.S. businesses are 'imminent,'" Sec. Nellie Gorbea said. "I strongly encourage all Rhode Island businesses to review their existing cybersecurity plans and to make any necessary changes or improvements to ensure their information, data, and assets remain protected."

There has been a significant increase in cybercrimes since the start of the invasion, federal and private sector cybersecurity experts told Gorbea's Office. Small businesses are particularly at risk, Gorbea said, due to fewer resources and employees.

"After two years of struggling through a global pandemic, Rhode Island’s small businesses are just now regaining their footing and are leading our economic recovery," Gorbea continued. "A series of successful cyberattacks at this time could be devastating for these businesses and our economy. Resources are available for business that do fall victim to cybercrimes, but we want to prevent them from happening in the first place."

The secretary encouraged all business owners in Rhode Island to take these steps to step up their security.

• Train all employees to identify, avoid and report phishing scams
• Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts and devices
• Use dual factor authentication, if possible
• Install antivirus software on computers and electronic devices, and keep it updated
• Keep a backup of software and system date

Learn more about cybersecurity for businesses from the Secretary of State's website.