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The Dallas Central Appraisal District, responsible for determining property values in the county, has been hobbled by a cyber ransomware attack for the past month. While the attack has not concluded, the DCAD put up a temporary website with basic functionality Thursday night.
The agency’s website has been down since Nov. 8, and federal authorities are involved with the investigation. A ransomware attack uses malicious software to prevent victims from using files on their system. Those behind the attack usually demand a ransom from the victim in exchange for regaining access to their data.
After 6 p.m. last night, the DCAD launched a new site with the help of tech vendor Bis Consultants to be of use to property owners in the meantime, spokesperson Cheryl Jordan said.
“It’s bare bones right now,” Jordan said.
“We still are not fully operational,” Jordan said. “We still cannot process exemptions or deeds or anything, but we’re still working on that.”
In the coming weeks, the agency plans to expand the websites features and capabilities. A disclaimer on the site says, “Dallas Central Appraisal District has a new service provider for the website. Please be patient as we add more content in the upcoming days and weeks.”
Bis Consultants, based out of Farmers Branch, provides internet and IT consulting to local governments, according to its website.
No further updates on the ransomware attack could be provided at this time, including a timeline or who is behind the attack.
“We’re getting through it,” Jordan said.