The US Virginia State Police network on Wednesday suffered a malware attack which shut down the department's email services.
According to The Virginian Pilots-online, the attack also affected the department's ability to update the Virginia Sex offender and Crimes Against children Registry website which forced the department to suspend email services between 8:pm on Wednesday until noon Thursday.
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"we recognize the vital role email plays in regards to communicating with State Police, and appreciate the public's patience and understanding as we diligently work to resolve this matter," CBS 6 TV quoted the Virginia State Police Superintendent Colonel W. Steven Flaherty while speaking a press conference.
"While during this period we are required to communicate with the public through alternative means, our level of service should not otherwise be affected," he added.
State police spokesman Corinne N. Geller told the press that the police are working with the Virginia Information Technologies Agency and Northrup Grumman to identify and eradicate the malware.