L.A. is the Hotspot of Cybercrime in the United States

June 14, 2022 ~ Los Angeles is one of the leading targets for cybercrime in the U.S., costing California over $600 million in 2020 alone.

Last year saw multitudes of varying cyberattacks, targeting L.A.’s infrastructure and innocent population.

On January 15, 2021, a water treatment plant that serves the San Francisco Bay Area was hacked. The infiltrator attempted to poison the water supply by deleting computer programs used for water treatment. Using a former employee’s login details, the hacker was able to remotely access the network. The breach was noticed a day later before any damage could be done. Since then, the individual responsible has been identified.

Azusa Police Department was a target of ransomware in early 2021. Discovered on March 9, the scope of the breach was broader than first reported. The stolen data included Social Security, California ID, and driver’s license numbers. Moreover, gang member contacts, crime scene photos, and confidential informants’ information were posted on a dark-web site. 

Later the same year, Planned Parenthood Los Angeles reported a major breach. The hacker compromised over 400,000 patients’ personal data. On October 17, the healthcare provider noticed suspicious activity on their computer systems. They immediately took their network offline. The motive behind the hack still remains unknown.

In the neighboring Orange County, authorities have launched SafeOC. Similar to the national “See Something, Say Something” campaign, SafeOC is an attempt to educate the public on how to protect themselves from these attacks. SafeOC also provides a tip-line for locals who observe suspicious activity online or in person.

Even the Port of Los Angeles has partnered with IBM to create the Cyber Resilience Center (CRC). Ports are prime targets for hackers, as supply chain interruptions can consistently cause damage. Touted as a “system of systems”, the CRC aims to enhance the port’s cybersecurity readiness and recovery from attacks.

On the whole, Los Angeles and its neighbors are implementing sweeping changes to the way their view and act on cyber threats.

Although big businesses are the common targets, there are a few things you can do right now to improve your own cybersecurity.

For instance, using unique passwords for every account and learning how to spot an online scam are fundamental skills everyone should develop.

While browsing the web, especially on a public connection, use a Virtual Private Network like a Surfshark VPN. A VPN disguises personal data from snoops online and on public Wi-Fi.

Stanley Quencher H2.0 Tumbler with Handle and Straw 30 oz | Flowstate 3-Position Lid | Cup Holder Compatible for Travel | Insulated Stainless Steel Cup | BPA-Free | Cherry Blossom

(55637)

(as of April 29, 2025 06:26 GMT -07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Pet Steam Brush for Dog & Cat – 3-in-1 Spray Hair Removal Comb – Steam for Shedding & Grooming – Water Brush for Long & Short Haired Pets – Spritz Defur Comb – Includes Waterless Shampoo

(612)

$24.99 (as of April 28, 2025 17:23 GMT -07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Spring Chef Stainless Steel Can Opener - Manual with Soft Grip Handles, Easy Turn, Heavy Duty Hand Can Openers for Seniors with Smooth Edge - Magnetic Lid Remover - Black

(253)

$8.99 (as of April 28, 2025 17:23 GMT -07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

MAONO Wave T1 Mini Wireless Lavalier Microphone for iPhone 16 15, Android, Tablet, PC, Clip on Lapel Mic with USB-C Plug, Noise Cancellation, AI Voice Filter for Video Recording Vlog TikTok YouTube

(30)

$29.99 (as of April 28, 2025 17:23 GMT -07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale, Digital Grams and Ounces for Weight Loss, Baking, Cooking, Keto and Meal Prep, LCD Display, Medium, 304 Stainless Steel

(158998)

(as of April 29, 2025 06:26 GMT -07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

The Nightingale: A Novel

(358770)

(as of April 29, 2025 06:26 GMT -07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes, Daily Facial Cleanser Towelettes, Gently Cleanse and Remove Oil & Makeup, Alcohol-Free Makeup Wipes, 2 x 25 ct

(109489)

(as of April 29, 2025 06:26 GMT -07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Clean Skin Club Clean Towels XL™, 100% USDA Biobased Face Towel, Disposable Face Towelette, Eczema Association Accepted, Makeup Remover Dry Wipes, Ultra Soft, 50 Ct, 1 Pack

(33436)

(as of April 29, 2025 06:26 GMT -07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

AUTOMET Women's Short Sleeve Shirts Henley Dressy Casual Summer Tops 2025 Trendy Blouses Cute T-Shirts Outfits Clothes

(26)

$17.99 (as of April 28, 2025 17:23 GMT -07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Cuisinart Round Classic Waffle Maker, Brushed Stainless, WMR-CANAS

(3)

$24.99 (as of April 28, 2025 17:23 GMT -07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)