The City of Long Beach has declared a state of emergency following the discovery of a cybersecurity incident targeting the city’s electronic systems. The proclamation was declared by City Manager Tom Modica on Thursday and ratified by the city council the following day.
The incident was first discovered on Nov. 14.
“The City’s Department of Technology and Innovation immediately initiated an investigation, engaged with the City’s contracted cyber security consultant firm, and notified the Federal Bureau of Investigation,” according to a press release.
There is no indication that public safety systems like the Emergency Communications Center were affected, and residents were still encouraged to call 911 for emergencies. As a precaution, however, some non-emergency services — including the city’s regular website — remained inaccessible for days.
Long Beach is among several California cities to be targeted by cyber criminals in 2023. El Cerrito, Hayward, Modesto, and Oakland were each hit with cyberattacks over the summer.