Ada County dispatch centers come back online after malware scare

BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — Ada County dispatch centers are coming back online after malware was detected in the communications center.

An update we received from the Ada County Sheriff's Office says that the malware was first detected on July 14, 2024. Computers that detected the malware were isolated and the dispatching system known as CAD was taken offline to ensure internal security.

Dispatchers were forced to revert to "Old school" methods, taking 911 calls, writing notes on virtual call cards, printing them, and being dispatched by a runner to the primary dispatcher who then sent the information to the appropriate agency via radio, according to ACSO.

This method is obviously slower, but it also significantly reduces how much information emergency responders receive while en route to a call for service.

Ada County IT, ACSO, and a "nationally-recognized cybersecurity and digital forensics firm," were able to contain and eradicate the malware.

“We all know the world relies on technology and we in public safety are no different,” said Sheriff Clifford. “But at the end of the day, we’re in the business of people helping people and we’re proud that we can demonstrate that even with our systems offline.”

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