Foster City Declares Emergency After Ransomware Attack Shuts Down City Network

Foster City declares emergency after ransomware attack cripples network, leaving 33,000 residents in the dark about data breaches.

By Content Team

Mar 25, 2026

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Foster City declared a state of emergency Monday night following a March 19 ransomware attack that continues to paralyze the city's computer network. The 33,000 residents are largely in the dark about what information may have been compromised, as city officials remain tight-lipped about details.

While 911 services and emergency response remain operational, City Hall is only offering limited services. The city council held their emergency meeting without Zoom access due to the ongoing network shutdown.

Only one resident, Yiming Luo, attended to voice concerns about the lack of transparency. Mayor Art Kiesel declined on-camera interviews, and councilmembers have been advised not to speak publicly about the attack. The emergency declaration makes Foster City eligible for expedited state and county assistance.

Source: CBS News Bay Area

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