In a significant cybersecurity breach, hackers infiltrated the Baltimore State’s Attorney’s Office (SAO) in March, stealing sensitive documents and personal information related to juvenile cases. The group behind the attack, known as Kairos, claims to have obtained 325 GB of confidential files, which it later released on the dark web after failed ransom negotiations in mid-March. Baltimore police alerted the SAO to the breach, which the office has since confirmed.
Among the stolen data are detailed reports on juvenile offenders, including spreadsheets listing names, birthdates, charges, arrest histories, and case outcomes—information protected under Maryland confidentiality laws. The breach also exposed internal affairs records concerning police complaints dating back to 2022. These files reportedly contain names, ranks, and contact details of officers who have been subjects of investigations.
“This could be very dangerous,” warned Shawn Duffy, a cybersecurity expert and CEO of Duffy Compliance. “Even if the hackers don’t use the information themselves, they will distribute it to others who might exploit it in different ways. That’s part of the hacker ecosystem—sharing and trading data.”
Possible Breach Methods and Ongoing Concerns
Though the method of the breach remains undisclosed, cybersecurity professionals believe phishing may have played a key role. According to Duffy, hackers often use social engineering tactics to deceive employees into revealing information that can be used to bypass security systems. “They’ll ask for just enough information—passwords, credentials, access links—to sidestep technical safeguards,” he explained.
The release of such highly sensitive data raises serious concerns about potential misuse. Juvenile records, in particular, are protected by strict confidentiality regulations. The leak could have long-term legal and psychological impacts on those affected, including minors whose private records are now public.
Under Maryland law, victims of such cybersecurity breaches must be notified, along with the state’s attorney general. As of Tuesday afternoon, it was unclear whether these notifications had been issued.
Baltimore State’s Attorney’s Office SAO Response and Federal Involvement
In response to the breach, Baltimore State’s Attorney’s Office Ivan Bates has directed members of his executive team to collaborate with external cybersecurity experts to enhance digital defenses. “We continue to enhance our cybersecurity and coordinate with our law enforcement partners, as this is an ongoing investigation,” said James Bentley, the SAO’s chief spokesperson.
Federal law enforcement agencies are now assisting the SAO with the investigation. Cybersecurity analysts stress the importance of conducting digital forensics to understand the attack vector and prevent future incidents. “They need to figure out what happened so they can contain it and secure their systems,” Duffy said.
As Baltimore recovers from this alarming breach, the incident underscores the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity practices in public institutions—particularly those that handle sensitive and protected information. The SAO has pledged to continue strengthening its defenses to prevent future attacks and protect the privacy of those it serves.
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