Peabody, MA Hit by Interlock Ransomware Attack Affecting 48,000 Residents The city of Peabody, Massachusetts, confirmed a June 2025 data breach exposing sensitive information of 48,004 state residents, including Social Security numbers, financial account details, and driver’s licenses. The ransomware group Interlock claimed responsibility, alleging it stole 124 GB of data from Peabody’s government network. However, city officials have not verified the group’s claims, and details about ransom demands or the attack’s entry point remain undisclosed. Peabody detected the breach on July 7, 2025, after discovering inaccessible systems. Investigations revealed unauthorized access between June 13 and July 8, 2025, during which attackers exfiltrated data. Affected individuals were notified and offered free credit monitoring through IDX, with an enrollment deadline of May 5, 2026. About Interlock Emerging in October 2024, Interlock is a ransomware gang known for dual-extortion tactics stealing data and encrypting systems before demanding payment. Since its inception, the group has claimed 41 confirmed attacks, plus 48 unverified incidents. In 2025 alone, Interlock targeted six government entities, including: - West Lothian Council (UK) – May 2025 breach - St. Paul, MN – July 2025 breach (refused ransom) - Box Elder County, UT – August 2025 breach (81,664 affected) - Shelbyville Police Department (KY) – October 2025 breach - Fargo Park District (ND) – October 2025 breach Broader Impact on U.S. Government Entities In 2025, 82 confirmed ransomware attacks on U.S. government bodies compromised data for over 630,000 individuals. Recent incidents include breaches at Midway, FL; Winona County, MN; New Britain, CT; and Tulsa International Airport (OK). Such attacks disrupt critical services from emergency dispatch to court records while forcing agencies to weigh ransom payments against prolonged downtime and fraud risks. Peabody, a coastal city of 55,000 residents in Essex County, joins a growing list of municipalities grappling with ransomware threats.