FBI Puts Ag on Alert for Ransomware Attacks

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued an alert for the U.S. food and agriculture industry that ransomware attacks may be more likely during critical planting and harvest seasons, disrupting operations, causing financial loss and negatively impacting the food supply chain.

Citing ransomware attacks against six grain cooperatives during the fall 2021 harvest and two attacks already in early 2022, the FBI is also advising that additional cyber attacks targeting farm cooperatives could impact the planting season by disrupting the supply of seeds and fertilizer.

It’s important to note that these type of attacks are not limited by geography and many tri-state organizations have fallen victim in recent months. The average ransom demand globally rose to $220,298 last year – up 43% compared to 2020.

To help keep you abreast of cybersecurity trends and ways to protect yourself and your farm operation, check out these complimentary resources:

• Read this article from Farm Journal to learn more about the FBI alert, details on recent attacks plus fourteen defensive measures you can implement now.
• Set aside thirty minutes to watch the replay of our recent First Bank Academy webinar, Protecting Your Business from Ransomware Attacks, by Lieberman Technologies. You’ll gain priceless insight into today’s threat landscape plus hear about real-life attacks from the tri-state.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions as our First Bank team is always here to help.