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Stratford County hack prompts Rockingham County to review Block 5 cybersecurity contract
Summary
Commissioners discussed a recent ransomware/hacking incident in neighboring Stratford County and the county’s one-year remaining contract with Lockhart for Block 5 cybersecurity services; staff praised the county cybersecurity lead for ongoing training and monitoring.
A hacking incident in nearby Stratford County prompted Rockingham County commissioners to reiterate the value of ongoing cybersecurity measures and to review the county’s contract timeline for Block 5 cybersecurity services during the March 20 meeting.
Commissioners described the Stratford County incident—where most county departments were affected except the sheriff’s office—and used it to illustrate the operational need for continuous cybersecurity investment. County officials praised their cybersecurity lead, Robin (first name only in the transcript), for training and outreach and said the county has one year remaining on a contract with Lockhart for Block 5 services. Commissioners said they would scrutinize the contract renewal but acknowledged that the vendor had been doing a solid job.
Why it matters: cybersecurity incidents can disrupt public services such as real-estate recording and other county functions. Rockingham County leaders presented the Stratford event as evidence that strong cybersecurity posture and continuity of vendor relationships can materially reduce operational risk.
What’s next: county staff said they will continue training, monitor contract renewal timing and scrutinize Lockhart’s performance before deciding whether to extend the Block 5 arrangement.
