County Commissioner seeks clarity on auditor's phishing scam amid FBI investigation

The Trumbull County Commissioners Meeting on September 18, 2024, focused on a significant issue involving the county auditor and a potential criminal case stemming from a phishing scam. The discussion highlighted the complexities surrounding the auditor's situation, including the need for her to secure independent legal representation due to a conflict of interest with the prosecutor's office.

Commissioner Malloy expressed concern over the auditor's predicament, emphasizing the importance of her role in managing county funds and internet technology. He noted that the incident, which is currently under FBI investigation, has not been adequately reported in the media. Malloy stated, "This isn't fair to you. My residents work hard to pay these taxes," indicating a desire to support the auditor during this challenging time.

The meeting also addressed the county's ongoing training regarding phishing scams, with officials noting that county employees regularly undergo tests to avoid such threats. Despite the auditor's previous success in these tests, the recent incident has raised questions about the security measures in place.

As the investigation continues, the commissioners are looking into ways to assist the auditor and ensure that the county's financial integrity remains intact. The situation underscores the critical nature of cybersecurity in local government operations and the potential ramifications of such breaches.