Hackers attack authority that runs Georgia real estate database
A state authority that oversees and manages a widely used database of Georgia’s real estate records said it recently suffered a sophisticated ransomware attack.
The Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority, which operates the central database for the state’s real estate index, announced Sunday it restricted its website and halted related services because of the cyberattack. It is unclear whether any sensitive information has been leaked or if a ransom has been demanded or paid.
“Due to a credible and ongoing cybersecurity threat, the Clerks’ Authority activated its defensive security protocols,” GSCCCA says on its website and social media posts. “Out of an abundance of caution, we continue to test and analyze our systems before they are made accessible to ensure maximum safety.”
In a Tuesday morning post, the authority said its information technology team “continues to work to ensure that all systems are safe for everyone to use.”
A spokesperson for the authority declined to comment to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, referring to the social media and website statements. The ransomware incident was first reported by the Atlanta Business Chronicle.
A ransomware group called Devman claimed responsibility for the cyberattack, according to multiple websites that track digital extortion threats. Devman claimed to have stolen 500 gigabytes of data in the Nov. 21 attack, according to the websites.
GSCCCA has not verified Devman’s claim.
Established in 1993, the authority manages a central index for real estate and personal property records, including deed transactions and property liens. It is typically the first place real estate sales are made public in Georgia.
It is unclear whether the cyberattack and resulting security protocols are affecting pending transactions or legal cases.
“We are committed to ensuring that our systems will be operational as soon as possible‚” GSCCCA’s statement said.
About the Author
Zachary Hansen, a Georgia native, covers economic development and commercial real estate for the AJC. He's been with the newspaper since 2018 and enjoys diving into complex stories that affect people's lives.
