Ransomware Attacks on Local Governments

To Whom It May Concern:

Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:

1. All information, documents, records, and communications regarding "ransomware" — malicious software (Cryptolocker, Cryptowall, etc.) that encrypt the contents of a victim’s hard drive, often until the victim pays the hackers to regain control kept by the FBI.
2. Any and all analyses of threats, recorded instances of its use, complaints received, and any actions recommended to local governments by the FBI, particularly regarding attacks on city or state governments, and police departments.

This request is for any and all records at any and all FBI offices, including HQ, field offices, legal attaches, and facilities that maintain records under the FBI’s control.

Please produce all records with their administrative markings intact, and all reports, memos and documents to include any and all administrative pages. In excising material, please black out rather than white out or cut out material.

The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.

In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.

Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 20 business days, as the statute requires.

Sincerely,

Kari Paul