Ransomware gang threatens Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes after shutting down schools

The government of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes was extorted after a ransomware attack in January that shut down schools, the tribal Department of Education systems, and other critical services. The Rhysida gang claimed responsibility and demanded 10 bitcoin (about $660,000) for stolen data, while Governor Reggie Wassana said the tribe refused to pay, involved federal authorities, and continued supporting employees during recovery. #Rhysida #CheyenneAndArapahoTribes

Keypoints

The Rhysida ransomware gang claimed the attack and demanded 10 bitcoin (~$660,000) for stolen data.
The intrusion began on December 8, 2025, and prompted system shutdowns while the tribe worked with IT and insurers to recover.
Schools and the tribe’s Department of Education lost computers, email, and phone systems, affecting students and services.
Governor Reggie Wassana called it a terrorist act, refused to pay the ransom, involved federal authorities, and maintained employee pay at Lucky Star Casino.
Rhysida has repeatedly targeted governments and other high-profile organizations, and multiple U.S. tribal administrations were hit by ransomware in 2025.