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Hackers worked undetected in RI’s benefits system for months before being found. What we know.

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Hackers worked undetected in RI’s benefits system for months before being found. What we know.


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  • Cybersecurity firm Crowdstrike was unable to determine how Brain Cipher stole the credentials of a Deloitte employee
  • Around 115,000 people whose data was believed to be stolen last year, and received state warning letters were probably not exposed, but 107,000 weren’t warned may have had data stolen
  • Attorney General Peter Neronha is investigating whether the state will sue Deloitte

Hackers infiltrated Rhode Island’s public benefits portal in early July 2024, five months before the state was alerted about the attack and eventually shut the system down, according to findings from an investigation of the breach.

The hack resulted in the personal data of 644,000 Rhode Islanders being posted on the dark web, slightly fewer than the 650,000 initially estimated to be affected.

How did hackers get into the RIBridges system?

The group Brain Cipher gained access to the RIBridges computer network on July 2 of 2024 by getting the credentials of an employee of Deloitte, the contractor that runs the system for the state, the report from cybersecurity firm Crowdstrike said.

Crowdstrike was not able to determine how Brain Cipher got the Deloitte employee’s credentials.

Once inside the RIBridges system, the hackers worked undetected by Deloitte until early December, when the hackers contacted the information technology vendor and threatened to release personal information downloaded from the system.

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Between November 11 and Nov. 28 of last year, Brain Cipher transferred large amounts of data from the RI Bridges system. After the hackers contacted Deloitte, the vendor told state officials about the hack on Dec. 4 and the system was shut down on Dec. 13.

RI in the early states of replacing, possibly suing, Deloitte

Gov. Dan McKee told reporters Thursday that Attorney General Peter Neronha’s office is now looking into a possible state lawsuit against Deloitte for failure to adequately protect resident data.

“Well, obviously we’re not pleased by it and we’re acting accordingly,” McKee said at a State House news conference. “That’s why the attorney general is looking into the implications there. I can say that under the circumstances … that this would be undetected for that period of time is something that is just unacceptable.”

The state is in the early stages of seeking proposals from vendors to replace Deloitte and the system, also known as the Unified Health Infrastructure Project, that has had numerous problems since it launched in 2016.

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People who thought they were in the clear may have had their data stolen

The composition of the people whose data was stolen has also changed from last December when the system was shut down.

Around 115,000 people whose data was believed to be stolen last year, and received state warning letters, were probably in the clear, state Chief Digital Officer Brian Tardiff said.

On the flip side, 107,000 people whose data was not previously suspected of being stolen may have actually had their data stolen and will now receive a new round of warning letters.

Those newly discovered vulnerabilities include people who had were hired to new jobs and had their employment status verified by the Department of Labor and Training. A handful of people whose information was contained in child support database and whose filed passed through the Department of Children Youth and Families were also compromised.

Those who have data is exposed in the hack are eligible for free credit monitoring.

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Tardiff said the state has not paid any ransom connected to the attack.



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Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s Gilded Moment: Saks Fifth Avenue Unveils Coastal Glamour in National Window Displays – Newport Buzz

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Rhode Island’s Gilded Moment: Saks Fifth Avenue Unveils Coastal Glamour in National Window Displays – Newport Buzz


Rhode Island is stepping into the spotlight — quite literally — with a new partnership that brings its historic charm and coastal elegance to the glossy windows of Saks Fifth Avenue.

On Tuesday, Rhode Island Commerce unveiled a collaboration with the luxury fashion powerhouse to showcase the timeless beauty of Newport and Providence across Saks Fifth Avenue’s flagship in New York and stores in Atlanta, Washington D.C., Chicago, and Los Angeles. Part tourism campaign, part artistic homage, the initiative elevates Rhode Island as both muse and destination.

The famed Fifth Avenue windows in New York now feature vignettes of Newport’s opulent Gilded Age mansions and Providence’s cobblestone charm, conjuring a cinematic escape to the Ocean State for passersby. Imagine ornate balustrades, lush cliffside gardens, and gaslit alleyways recreated with Saks-level artistry.

Saks Fifth Ave Newport Providence Rhode Island

Inside the stores, from July 1 through July 30, curated Rhode Island-inspired displays will channel the state’s artistic flair and nautical lifestyle. The installations aim to immerse shoppers in the elegant ease of summer on Narragansett Bay — where sailing meets sculpture, and seersucker mingles with high design.

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“This collaboration not only highlights our stunning landscapes and rich culture, but it also helps drive tourism,” said Rhode Island Commerce Secretary Liz Tanner, who noted the economic impact of this national exposure.

Running through July 2 in windows and through the end of the month in-store, the Saks partnership serves as a modern love letter to Rhode Island’s enduring allure. Sophistication with a sea breeze — now on display.

Saks Fifth Ave Newport Rhode Island

Explore the look: saks.com/rhodeisland.

 

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Providence woman arrested in connection to fatal crash on I-95 S | ABC6

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Providence woman arrested in connection to fatal crash on I-95 S | ABC6


PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island State Police said a Providence woman was arrested in connection to a fatal motor vehicle crash on Interstate 95 South.

36-year-old Licheva Castro was charged with driving under the influence of liquor and/or drugs resulting in death, driving to endanger resulting in death, obstructing an officer in execution of duty, driving with a suspended/revoked/cancelled license- fourth or subsequent offense, and an active affidavit and arrest warrant for possession of 10 grams or less of Schedule I-V (cocaine) and obstruction of a police officer in the execution of duty.

On June 22, the Providence Fire Department said firefighters responded to the area of exit 37B around 3 a.m. to find a multi-vehicle crash.

The driver of one vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene, and two other victims were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

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Castro was arraigned and held without bail.

Rhode Island State Police are investigating the incident.





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Nature-Based Printables Help Rhode Island Families Turn Beach Days into Learning Adventures

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Nature-Based Printables Help Rhode Island Families Turn Beach Days into Learning Adventures


Explore Rhode Island

Mindful Printables US launches comprehensive Ocean State nature guides featuring local hot spots and expert identification tips
Providence, Rhode Island – June 21, 2025 – As summer vacation begins, Rhode Island families are discovering a new way to transform ordinary beach walks and nature hikes into interactive learning experiences. Mindful Printables US has launched a comprehensive collection of downloadable nature guides specifically designed for the Ocean State, featuring everything from seashells found at Napatree Point to wildflowers blooming in local parks.
“Rhode Island’s diverse ecosystems-from our 400 miles of coastline to our inland forests-offer incredible learning opportunities right in our backyard,” says Rey Doon, founder of Mindful Printables US. “Our guides help families identify what they’re seeing while exploring the specific places where these discoveries are most likely to happen. When a child finds a moon snail shell at East Beach, they can learn not just what it is, but why it’s there.”
Comprehensive Rhode Island Nature Collection
The Rhode Island series includes five specialized guides covering the state’s most popular outdoor activities:
Seashells Guide: Features shells commonly found along RI’s shoreline with a curated list of the top 10 shelling locations, from East Beach in Charlestown to Mohegan Bluffs on Block Island, complete with parking information, peak seasons, and insider tips.
Wildflowers Guide: Identifies native and naturalized flowers throughout Rhode Island’s parks, trails, and coastal areas with seasonal blooming information.
Birds Guide: Showcases species found across the state’s varied habitats, from coastal birds at Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge to woodland species in local parks.
Leaves & Trees Guide: Helps families identify Rhode Island’s diverse tree species, perfect for walks through places like Lincoln Woods or Arcadia Management Area.
Butterflies Guide: Features the colorful butterflies and moths found in Rhode Island gardens, fields, and conservation areas.
Each guide goes beyond simple identification, including tracking logs for recording discoveries, fun facts about local ecosystems, engaging games like crosswords and word searches, and detailed hot spot recommendations with practical visiting information.
More Than Just Identification
“What sets our guides apart is the local expertise,” notes Doon. “We don’t just show you what a surf clam looks like-we tell you that East Matunuck State Beach is one of the best places to find them, especially after a storm, and that you should arrive early on weekends for the best shelling experience.”
The printables are designed for various learning styles and age groups, featuring clear photographs, easy-to-read descriptions, interactive activities, and space for children to sketch their own discoveries. Teachers and homeschooling families have particularly embraced the guides for incorporating hands-on science into their curricula.
Local families report that the guides have transformed their outdoor experiences. “My kids used to get bored on beach walks,” says one Providence parent. “Now they’re actively hunting for specific shells and asking questions about what they find. It’s turned every beach day into a treasure hunt.”
Supporting Rhode Island’s Outdoor Education
The guides reflect Rhode Island’s commitment to environmental education and outdoor recreation. By highlighting specific locations and providing practical visiting information, Mindful Printables US supports local beaches, parks, and conservation areas while encouraging responsible exploration.
Each location featured in the guides includes website links, parking information, and seasonal tips to help families plan successful outings while respecting these natural spaces.
About Mindful Printables US
Founded by Rey Doon, Mindful Printables US creates state-specific educational resources that connect children and families with their local natural environments. The company’s mission is to make outdoor education accessible while fostering environmental stewardship and curiosity about the natural world.
Purchase Rhode Island nature guides: https://sites.google.com/view/mindfulprintablesus/by-region/rhode-island
Media Contact:
Rey Doon
reydoonvalley@gmail.com
High-resolution images, sample guide pages, and founder interviews available upon request.

Lalley Blvd,
Fairfield CT 06824
Rey Doon
Email: reydoonvalley@gmail.com

MindfulPrintablesUS creates nature-inspired printables to help families connect, slow down, and explore

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We believe that spending time outdoors and observing the natural world brings a sense of mindfulness, wonder, and calm. Our products are designed to encourage families, educators, and kids to slow down, look closely, and engage with the world around them-whether it’s on a beach, in a backyard, or during a walk in the woods.

From nature trackers and birdwatching journals to printable scavenger hunts and creative prompts, our resources are crafted with intention and a love for learning. Every product is designed to make outdoor exploration and nature education accessible and fun. Thank you for visiting-we hope our creations help you pause, explore, and enjoy the moment.

This release was published on openPR.



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