Chelan County internet and phone networks infected by Malware 'bad actors'

Chelan County’s networks and telephone system continue to be down and unavailable to the public due to a system-wide failure that started on Sunday.

The county reported late Tuesday that progress is being made in restoring computer networks disrupted by a malicious software (Malware) infection.

"What isn’t known is when systems will be back up and running for the public," the county said.

The county is working with third-party specialists to determine what happened.

Chelan County Sheriff’s detectives are assisting the FBI in an investigation to possibly identify the involved "bad actors."

Chelan County offices are open but do not have access to online services or phone systems. Only the Sheriff’s administrative office and those services are closed at this time.

All county emergency response departments are operating and serving residents. This includes the Sheriff’s Office, Regional Justice Center, Coroner’s Office and Emergency Management.

The county shared on Facebook, "Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) services at the Chelan County Auditor’s Office are fully functioning, as are DOL subagents around the county.

Recording services at the Auditor’s Office require cash or check. While we will take documents, they will not be recorded until we are back online.

If you are using the Dryden Transfer Station, please pay with check, cash or an existing account. The transfer station and Moderate Risk Waste Facility are open to the public.

If you need the WSU Extension Office in Chelan County, the office is open for in-person business.

Community Development is doing building inspections. If you need to request a building inspection, visit the office and bring your permit number. The department is also is taking permit payments, both for building and planning files. You will need to pay by check or cash (exact amount only) and bring your permit number or file number when you visit the office.

Chelan County Superior Court is operating but on a more limited basis. Assume your case is going to be heard as scheduled unless you hear otherwise from court staff. If you need to reach the court, email chelancountysuperiorcourt@gmail.com.

Chelan County District Court hearings are rescheduled and notices of new hearing dates and times will be sent out at a later date. All hearings, except jail in-custody defendants for criminal appearances, are continued.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue to investigate this issue. We will post all updates to the Chelan County and Chelan County Emergency Management Facebook pages."