Winkler closes municipal offices in response to cybersecurity incident

The City of Winkler has closed city hall and other municipal offices as it deals with a cybersecurity incident that has affected parts of the city’s information technology systems.

The incident was detected by the city’s cybersecurity protection systems, prompting officials to isolate affected systems and take some services offline while the situation is assessed.

Phone and payment systems are currently unavailable. City hall, public works and the Meridian Exhibition Centre administration offices will be closed Thursday and Friday.

The city said critical municipal services continue, and drinking water remains safe. The Winkler Aquatic Centre and Meridian Exhibition Centre remain open.

The city said it has engaged external cybersecurity experts to assist with the investigation and recovery efforts, and police have been contacted.

Officials are trying to determine the full scope and impact of the incident, including whether any city or personal information may have been involved.

“We recognize the inconvenience this situation is causing residents, businesses, and community organizations and appreciate their patience and understanding as City staff and external experts work through the recovery process,” officials said in a Wednesday release.