RCPD using backup communication systems after cybersecurity incident
MANHATTAN (KSNT) — Emergency responders in Riley County are having to use backup systems after a radio communication system lost connection early Monday morning.
This radio network issue is affecting all first responders in Riley County. This includes police, fire, and emergency medical services, according to a release. The problem is not impacting the county’s 911 systems. Dispatch operators are able to use necessary resources and communicate with emergency responders.
Riley County’s P25 public safety agency radio communication system lost its connection as part of a cybersecurity incident. P25 is a solution for intra-agency communication, which allows for interoperable, multi-agency communications during an emergency, according to the release.
“Each dispatch console has a backup, which preserves connectivity,” Riley County Emergency Response Director Russel Stukey said. “Emergency responders are temporarily using a different radio channel while the issue is investigated. Communication is established and active for all local emergency response agencies.”
The Riley County Board of County Commissioners met today at 4:30 p.m. Monday to discuss the situation. It made a local declaration of a disaster emergency in response to the cybersecurity incident.
According to the release, the radio communications system is separate from all other communications and technology systems in Riley County. No personal, financial, or other information is associated with this incident, which is under investigation.
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