A ransomware attack breached public defender offices, exposing sensitive client data nationwide.

A major cybersecurity breach at multiple public defender offices has exposed sensitive client data, highlighting widespread vulnerabilities in the systems protecting low-income defendants. Officials describe the incident as "catastrophic," citing unauthorized access to case files, personal information, and communications. The breach, linked to a sophisticated ransomware attack, has prompted urgent calls for improved federal and state funding to bolster digital defenses in under-resourced legal aid organizations.