What’s working (and what’s not) after Mecklenburg County computers hacked

Some information remains out of reach to the public after Mecklenburg County’s computer system was taken hostage by hackers.

County departments turned to paper to continue operating at a slower than normal pace. It could be days before the situation is resolved as county officials decide whether to pay a $23,000 ransom or to restore frozen data.

Among affected operations, the county said:

Department of Social Services

People with transportation reservations through DSS/Mecklenburg Transportation Service scheduling should call Customer Connection at 704-336-4547 to confirm reservations for bus passes and vendor transportation for trips scheduled through next Monday. The service helps recipients get to medical appointments, including seniors or disabled people who need dialysis or chemotherapy.

Tax Office

Property tax payments can’t be made at the Wilkinson Boulevard location. Tax records and payment information aren’t available online or by phone. No online services, including payments, are available.

Real estate and personal property taxes can be paid in person at Walton Plaza if the taxpayer brings the bill. Gross receipts tax payments can be made at the Hal Marshall Center if the payer presents the completed tax return. Credit and debit cards can’t be accepted.

Register of Deeds

Computers used to complete marriage applications, research assumed business names and research records are not working. Professionals who have prepaid for copies won’t be able to access those funds.

Land Use and Environmental Services Agency

Code and Storm Water Services can’t review plans or issue new permits. GIS can’t provide addressing or other services. Air Quality asbestos reviews aren’t available. The code enforcement inspection process will be slower.

Tax Assessor

Systems that are used to appraise real property and personal property are down. Polaris and the look-up online link for tax bills are also down.

Child Support Enforcement

Call your agent to see if services are available.

Park and Recreation

Online reservations are down.

Finance

No electronic fund transfers, processing of procurement requests or similar transactions are available.

Human Resources

Applicants can’t apply for vacant positions.

This story was originally published December 6, 2017 at 1:03 PM with the headline "What’s working (and what’s not) after Mecklenburg County computers hacked."