"Everything's frozen": Ransomware locks credit union users out of bank accounts

A ransomware attack has disrupted services at Patelco Credit Union in California, affecting over 450,000 members. The attack occurred on June 29, leading to the shutdown of online banking and other services with limited functionality for transactions, transfers, and payments. The credit union is working with cybersecurity experts to restore its systems securely. Members are experiencing frozen accounts, with direct deposits having limited functionality. Security experts suggest hackers likely infiltrated internal databases through phishing emails, encrypting data and demanding ransom for restoration. Patelco is waiving fees and providing alternative ways for members to access funds during the recovery process. Services like online banking, mobile apps, and wire transfers remain unavailable, while some services like check and cash deposits are operational. Patelco is investigating the incident's scope and potential impact on personal information, promising to notify affected individuals and provide necessary resources. The credit union advises members to expect intermittent outages and limited functionality across various services as recovery efforts continue.