Yap, one of the states in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), recently fell victim to a ransomware attack that resulted in the shutdown of all computers within its government health agency. The incident, which occurred on March 11, 2025, has caused significant disruptions to the state’s digital health systems and network.
The cyberattack was detected by the Yap Health Department’s IT unit, prompting officials to take immediate action by shutting down the entire network to prevent further damage. As a result, the department lost internet connectivity, and all computers were powered off to contain the threat. Despite the attack, the department reassured the public that services are still operational, albeit at a slower pace than usual.
In response to the attack, the Health Department is collaborating with the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs and external IT contractors to assess the extent of the breach, determine the data that has been compromised, and work towards restoring services as soon as possible. Email communication through health servers and all digital health systems remains offline until further notice.
While the investigation into the ransomware attack is ongoing, no specific group has claimed responsibility for the incident. This unfortunate event is not unique to Yap, as other Pacific island nations such as Tonga, Vanuatu, and the Philippines have also fallen victim to similar cyberattacks in recent times.
The attack on Yap serves as a stark reminder of the growing threat of cybercrime, particularly ransomware attacks, targeting vulnerable regions and organizations worldwide. As governments and businesses increasingly rely on digital systems to deliver essential services, the risk of such attacks continues to escalate.
It is crucial for organizations to prioritize cybersecurity measures, including regular security assessments, employee training, and the implementation of robust security protocols to mitigate the risk of cyber threats. Cooperation between government agencies, private contractors, and cybersecurity experts is essential to effectively respond to and recover from such attacks.
The incident in Yap highlights the need for greater awareness and preparedness in the face of evolving cybersecurity threats. As the investigation unfolds and efforts to restore services progress, it is imperative for all stakeholders to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding digital infrastructure and data from malicious actors.
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Original Post URL: https://securityaffairs.com/175445/cyber-crime/a-ransomware-attack-hit-the-micronesian-state-of-yap.html.