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Chelan County shuts down networks, phones after malware attack hits all departments

Komonews • May 24, 2026

CHELAN COUNTY, Wash. — Chelan County officials shut down government networks, computers, and phone systems after malware was detected in the county’s network, impacting all departments, according to Chelan County Emergency Management.

Chelan County Emergency Management said the malware was detected at 10 a.m. Sunday by Chelan County IT. “At this time, we do not know the extent or the full scope of the damage,” the agency said.

As a precaution, Chelan County Emergency Management said the county shut down its "network, computers, and telephone system across all departments.” The county’s IT department is working with security partners to restore systems, but there is no timeline for completion.

Because offices are closed on Monday, Chelan County Emergency Management said it expects to provide an update on Tuesday.

Emergency services are still available, and the public should call Rivercom 911 if help is needed. The agency noted the issue should not slow down responses to calls by the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office.

Chelan County Emergency Management said Everbridge notifications remain active, but residents may see slight delays.

For people who need to conduct urgent county business, Chelan County Emergency Management asked residents to come in person to speak with someone who works in the needed department.

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This article is one source in a clustered incident — the cluster page carries the summary, timeline and every other outlet covering it.

Chelan County Government Systems Compromised by Malware Attack Chelan County, Washington, experienced a malware attack that affected all government departments, prompting officials to shut down networks, computers, and phone systems. The malware was detected by the IT department at 10 a.m. on May 24, 2026. The county's Emergency Management confirmed that the attack impacted all departments and stated that the full extent of the damage is still unknown. The IT team is collaborating with security partners to restore systems, but no timeline for recovery has been established. Emergency services remain operational, and residents are advised to contact Rivercom 911 for urgent assistance. Updates are expected on May 26, 2026, due to the holiday weekend. 3 sources 52

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Chelan County shuts down networks, phones after malware attack hits all departments

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