PRINCE FREDERICK, MD – Authorities in Calvert County are investigating a security breach after the county’s Everbridge emergency notification system was compromised earlier Wednesday.
Officials say an unauthorized message was sent to subscribers before the system was shut down.
The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office confirmed it is working with county technology staff to contain the incident and prevent further unauthorized use.
Key Points
• Calvert County’s Everbridge alert system was hacked and used to send an unauthorized message
• The Sheriff’s Office and Technology Services are investigating and restoring system security
• Officials say updates will be shared once the system is fully secured
Unauthorized alert sparks investigation
The breach was reported earlier in the day when residents began receiving unexpected messages from the county’s Everbridge notification platform. The system, designed to deliver emergency alerts, weather warnings, and public safety updates, was quickly taken offline once the issue was discovered.
Officials move to secure system
In a statement, the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office said it is working closely with Calvert County Technology Services to resolve the problem and ensure no additional messages are sent without authorization. Officials did not release details about the content of the false alert or how access to the system was gained.
County assures residents system will be restored
Authorities emphasized that the situation poses no direct safety threat to residents but acknowledged the disruption caused by the unauthorized message. The county has pledged to share updates as soon as the system is secure and operational again.
Cybersecurity concerns under review
The incident has raised questions about the vulnerability of local government communication systems, which are relied upon for emergency notifications. County officials said additional security measures will be implemented to prevent future breaches while the investigation continues.