Today, a conversation about the origins of the ransomware virus that has incapacitated the computer system in Baltimore City. Many City agencies and officials were unable to send or receive emails, or voice mails. Web sites remained functional, but city employees have only gradually been able to restore ways in which the public can communicate with them.
The fix for this malicious malware will take a long time, and cost a lot of money. City Council President Brandon Scott has asked Governor Larry Hogan to request an emergency declaration from the federal government to assist in the slow process of restoring the system so bills can be paid, data bases accessed, documents can be produced, and the city’s business can be accomplished.
So, what does the attack mean for the city and other public entities, private corporations, and individuals. Tom is joined by Scott Shane of the New York Times; and Johns Hopkins University Professor of Computer Science and cyber-security expert Avi Rubin.
