CodeRED cyber attack leaves emergency notification system down, exposes user data

ST. LOUIS, Mo. (First Alert 4) - A cyber-attack has disabled the nationwide CodeRED emergency notification system used across the metro area. It also exposed the personal information of thousands of users who signed up for alerts.

The attack targeted the system that sends emergency notifications directly to cellphones. Cities including O’Fallon and Washington, as well as Eureka and Belleville, use CodeRED to alert residents about water service interruptions, severe weather and other emergencies.

Data breach affects thousands

OnSolve CodeRED confirmed that cybercriminals obtained user information in what the company described as a targeted attack by an organized cybercriminal group. The stolen data may include personal information, cellphone numbers, emails and passwords, but no bank acc