In a recent meeting held on May 30, 2025, the Carter County Commissioners addressed several pressing issues, including cybersecurity concerns and the management of local government services. The discussions highlighted the importance of safeguarding county communications against potential threats.

One of the primary topics was the alarming rise in phishing attempts targeting county officials through outdated email accounts associated with Mid Rivers. Officials noted that these emails, which appear legitimate at first glance, often contain harmful attachments that could compromise the county's digital security. The commissioners discussed the need for a proactive approach to mitigate these risks, including the possibility of blocking old email accounts that have been exploited for malicious purposes.

The conversation underscored the necessity for ongoing vigilance among county employees regarding suspicious emails. Officials emphasized that Mid Rivers has confirmed they do not send emails requesting account updates or payments, reinforcing the need for staff to remain cautious and avoid opening attachments from unknown sources.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the distribution of important documents and reports, with officials confirming that electronic copies have been sent out for public review. However, hard copies are still pending, which may delay public access to critical information.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners acknowledged the importance of maintaining secure communication channels and the need for continued education on cybersecurity practices among county staff. This proactive stance is essential in protecting the integrity of county operations and ensuring the safety of sensitive information.

Moving forward, the county plans to remind employees and the public about the risks associated with phishing scams and the importance of verifying the authenticity of emails before taking any action. The discussions from this meeting reflect a growing awareness of cybersecurity issues within local government, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance in an increasingly digital world.