Final Update - June 9
Thank you for your patience and understanding during these past weeks. The investigation is complete and did not identify risk to sensitive information for members, the community, or staff. Our proactive steps helped protect and confirm the network's security. During our downtime, we also implemented additional measures to further harden our defenses and mitigate the risk of a similar incident recurring.
Although we do not expect to learn more information, if our understanding of this matter changes, we will publish an update on our website. For now, this is our final update on the cyber matter.
Updated June 2
To keep the community informed, Palatine Library District is providing periodic updates regarding the ongoing cyber investigation. The investigation determined that a cyber actor did successfully access the Library’s computer network. Notwithstanding such access, to-date, we have not seen any sensitive files at risk.
In response to this matter, we took steps to confirm the security of the computer network and implemented additional technical measures to further harden our defenses and mitigate the risk of a matter like this reoccurring.
We will provide updates as more information is learned. Future updates about this matter will be published on our website at https://www.palatinelibrary.org.
Library Internet Restored, Some Services Still Affected
Palatine Library District's internet is operational, and services are being restored in a staggered manner.
Wi-Fi, phones, and member computers are now functional. The technology staff is working to bring all remaining services online as quickly as possible.
Current Service Issues:
Branches Self-Checkout
Workshop Mac Computers
Workshop Sublimation and Laser Machines
Scan to Email
Fax Machine
Updated: May 20, 2025
To Our Valued Members, Staff and Community:
This past week, an unknown cyber actor contacted the Library and claimed to have copied files from the computer network without permission. In response, the computer network was taken offline to evaluate the accuracy of the claim, and this matter was reported to law enforcement. To date, we have not been able to substantiate the cyber actor’s representation.
We do not have additional information available at this time, including whether the claim is accurate and/or involves sensitive files. Further, sensitive information is not typically collected from members or the community in the ordinary course of operations.
It is possible that the cyber actor may send spam or phishing emails. If this occurs, please delete the emails and do not interact with links or attachments as their contents may be malicious. You may also report the emails to your service or information technology provider. You do not need to report this to the Library.
We understand that this information may provide the community with concerns. If individuals have concerns about this matter, they may review the “Steps Individuals Can Take To Protect Personal Information” guide.
We will provide updates as more information is learned. Future updates about this matter will be published on our website at https://www.palatinelibrary.org. Additional questions about this matter can be directed to the Executive Director, Melissa Gardner: mgardner@palatinelibrary.org.
We thank the community for their patience and understanding while we continue to review this matter.
Sincerely,
Palatine Library District